Farming News - Mule Judge Announced for Agri Expo 2026

Mule Judge Announced for Agri Expo 2026

Noted Northumberland Breeder to Judge Mule Gimmer Lamb Classes at Borderway Agri Expo 2026

 

Harrison & Hetherington is pleased to announce that Martyn Archer, a highly regarded Bluefaced Leicester breeder from Northumberland, will judge the Mule Gimmer Lamb classes at this year's Borderway Agri Expo.

 Held at Borderway Mart in Carlisle on Friday 30th October 2026, Borderway Agri Expo is a flagship event on the agricultural calendar, attracting the finest livestock from across the UK. Known for its exceptional standard of entries and expert judging, the event continues to showcase the very best in British livestock breeding.

 One of the show's most competitive and widely anticipated sheep sections is the Mule Gimmer Lamb classes, highlighting the quality and consistency of commercial breeding sheep. With both pairs and single lambs featured in the updated format, these classes continue to grow from strength to strength.

 Laura Millar, Harrison & Hetherington's Director (Strategy) and event organiser, said: "The Mule Gimmer Lamb classes are always among the most competitive of the day, and we are delighted to welcome such a noted breeder hugely respected figure within the Mule and Bluefaced Leicester world  as Martyn to take up this judging role."

 This year's judge, Martyn Archer, formerly of Carry House Farm near Hexham, has long been recognised for his expertise in breeding Bluefaced Leicesters and producing high-quality Mule ewe lambs for the commercial market.

 

Having farmed all his life, Martyn recently retired from his sheep enterprise and now resides in Haydon Bridge. Over the years, he established a strong reputation for breeding modern, crossing-type sheep, with a particular focus on producing quality Mule lambs. Martyn has enjoyed notable success selling at Borderway, including two record-breaking female sales when dispersing his Bluefaced Leicester flock. A former chairman of NEMSA, he brings a wealth of experience in breeding, showing, and judging to the role.

 No stranger to Borderway Agri Expo, Martyn first judged at the event in 2017 and is looking forward to returning to the ring this year. Speaking ahead of the show, Martyn said: "I'm delighted and honoured to be asked back to judge at Agri Expo. I thoroughly enjoyed it the first time and I know I will again. I'll be looking for quality, conformation, and a modern Mule with power and strong breed characteristics."

 Borderway Agri Expo is not just a livestock show; it also features hundreds of trade stands showcasing the latest developments in farming practice, breeding, genetics, machinery, equipment, technology, environmental issues, livestock marketing and export opportunities, making it a must-attend event for the modern agricultural industry.

 For all the latest updates, visit www.borderwayagriexpo.uk and follow Borderway Agri Expo on Facebook and Instagram.