A brand new addition has been announced for the much-anticipated NSA North Sheep 2025 event. Farmers, shearers, shepherds, and industry professionals will gather at Greystoke Castle Farm, Penrith, for the North of England's premier sheep industry showcase. Among the exciting highlights of the event will be a Speed Shear Competition, held in partnership with the Northern Speed Shear Circuit.

Speed shear competitions are the ultimate test of skill, speed, and precision in sheep shearing, providing an electrifying atmosphere for competitors and audiences alike. This exciting competition will bring together top local and international shearers to compete for top honours while showcasing their expertise.

The contest requires competitors to shear a sheep in the shortest time possible while ensuring the animal's safety, welfare and the quality. Each participant must remove the fleece efficiently, avoiding long staples and ensuring a clean, safe finish. The timer starts with the first blow and stops with the last.

Chris Adamson, Event Organiser for NSA North Sheep, shares his enthusiasm:"We are thrilled to partner with the Northern Speed Shear Circuit to host this competition at NSA North Sheep 2025. It's a fantastic showcase of the incredible skill, precision, and speed of our shearers, bringing an amazing buzz to the event."

The Speed Shear competition will take centre stage from 3.30 pm, concluding with the presentation of awards around 6.30 pm. Limited to 50 shearers across the Open and Senior competition categories, entries are now being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with additional entries potentially taken on the day, subject to availability.

Competition details

• Classes
  • Intermediate
  • Open Class
  • Veterans over 50 class
• Timing: The Speed Shear begins at 3.30 pm and finishes around 6.30 pm.
• Registration to be made by contacting Zoe Porter Watson on 07812 994525 or Richard Schofield on 07966 291618
• Entry fee: £20 per competitor
• Prize money will be awarded to the top competitors in each category.

Mark your calendars for NSA North Sheep 2025 on Wednesday, 4th June 2025, at Greystoke Castle Farm. It promises to be a packed day celebrating the best of sheep farming, with something for everyone to enjoy. Visit www.northsheep.org for more information.