The UK's premier autumn livestock event, Carlisle's Borderway Agri Expo expected to be a post-Budget discussion for the farming sector.

Falling as it does two days after the Labour Government's first Budget, Harrison & Hetherington's Borderway Agri Expo 2024 will be an even more important platform for the discussions of issues arising from the Chancellor's plans for farming. With thousands expected to attend this event taking place at Carlisle on Friday, November 1st, will also offer livestock farmers an insight into the steps they can take to secure an economically and environmentally sustainable future for their farms and families.

The potential loss of IHT reliefs for farming businesses is one of the key topics for the Agri Expo Seminars, which will draw a packed audience to hear from experts what the budget means for the future succession of next generation farmers.

Now in its 16th year, this internationally renowned event, will bring together breeders, exhibitors, and visitors from across the UK and Ireland, as well as a global online audience. With over 120 trade stands, and nearly 900 livestock entries, the event celebrates excellence in British livestock. Farmers and breeders will compete in 22 National Prime Sheep classes, 25 National Suckled Calf and Cattle classes, and five breed society shows, including the Aberdeen Angus Winter National Show, Simmental Regional Calf Show, British Blue Club Calf Show, Hereford National Calf Show, and Beef Shorthorn National Calf Show.

 Speaking in advance, Harrison & Hetherington Director and Event Organiser Laura Millar, said: "This is an important Livestock Show and Agri Business Event for the British livestock industry, and whatever the budget may hold, Borderway Agri Expo will shine a spotlight on the positive developments in the UK livestock industry that make it a world leader in genetics, new technology and innovation. 

 "However, this is a crucial time for farming, and as a unique gathering of likeminded stakeholders, for those attending it will help them address key issues such as how to meet changing market demands, how to make the most of the funding support available and how to use the drive towards Carbon Net Zero to increase productivity and efficiency. In other words, how to use every possible advantage of skill and knowledge, expertise and intelligence to maintain and enhance lasting farming success."

 Expert judges from across the UK and Ireland have been invited to cast their eyes over what will be some of the Uk's finest livestock. William Smith will be travelling from County Meath in Ireland to judge the cattle classes, Scotland's Craig Robertson will judge the Baby Beef Classes and Young Handlers; representing England, Cumbrian based Steven Wilson will lead the sheep judging; and the Mule classes will be judged by Welsh sheep farmer and breeder Brian Davies.

In addition, leading breed society experts, including Tom Beadle (Aberdeen Angus), Kenny Mair (Beef Shorthorn), Jean MacKay Parker (British Blue), and Gary McKeirnan (Hereford), will judge the prestigious pedigree classes.

The event also supports young talent through competitions like the Young Handlers classes and the David Allen Stockperson of the Year Competition.

Tackling key industry issues, Borderway Agri Expo will feature two seminars, hosted by H&H Land & Estates: 

1. The Future of Farming & Food Production – exploring sustainable agriculture and consumer demand for high-quality, local food, featuring speakers such as Jim Shanks from Standhill Farm, Tom Hargreaves, Booths, and Colin Bateman, AHDB. 

1. Succession Planning & Intergenerational Farming – discussing legal and financial planning for farm transfers, led by Agri Influencer Tom Pemberton, Emma Armstrong and Emma Baker from Burnetts Solicitors, and Victoria Ivinson from EQ Accountants. 

For more information and a full event schedule, visit the Borderway Agri Expo website - www.borderwayagriexpo.uk        

Event Details 

• Date:  Friday, 1st November 2024 

• Location:  Borderway, Carlisle 

• Gates Open:  8:00am 

• Entry: Free