Trimming Day 2015

On Saturday 23rd May the Northern Ireland Dorset sheep Breeders Club organised a trimming workshop for any of the Club's membership that were wanting advice, schooling and hands on experience in wool preparation and trimming.

Around 30 people turned up to Ballymena Livestock mart in the afternoon to be briefed by Mr Robert Hole, Sherborne flock, Dorset, on selection, wool type, washing, dressing and overall show preparation.
Rob then put a ewe lamb onto the stand and explained the process of pulling out, carding and trimming. Then he encouraged the onlookers to pick a ewe lamb each and make a start themselves.
19 members took up the offer and each got a ewe lamb into the headstands provided and started the show prep process for themselves.
Rob Hole, Trevor Knox, James Robson and William Carson then went around the different breeders, helping out and advising on the tricky spots as and when they arose.
After three hours hard work and a few aches the ewe lambs were transformed from natural state to catwalk ready!! Well almost!

A great time was had by all and a lot of trade secrets were exchanged between Rob and the new breeders.
Before finishing the workshop Rob explained how to sharpen and care for a good pair of hand shearers.
Thanks go out to Rob and Alice Hole and all the committee and members who helped during the day and provided the very welcome tea and coffee break and the other established breeders who leant out their equipment and headstands to facilitate the smooth running of the day's events.

Vice chairperson, Amy McConnell thanked Rob Hole for giving up his time and all the breeders who turned up to learn a few tips and experience the procedure first hand.