Farmers from across Wales have enjoyed a successful information day on wool when they joined a Meirionnydd sheep farming family from outside Bala, who hosted the event in conjunction with British Wool, Harrison Spinks and Gwnaed A Gwlan.

The event, which was open to all, was hosted by former Farmers’ Union of Wales President Emyr Jones and his sons Aled and Dylan at Rhiwaedog, Rhos y Gwaliau, Bala. Those joining the visit enjoyed an introduction to the farm, which is a traditional family run beef and sheep farm. There was information on the British Wool Traceable Scheme of which the farm has taken part, an update from the ‘Made with Wool’ project, and a talk from Harrison Spinks who are award winning mattress manufactures championing Welsh wool.

FUW Meirionnydd County Executive Officer Huw Jones said:

“We had a fascinating day at Rhiwaedog, and we are extremely grateful to Emyr, Aled and Dylan and all the family for the warm welcome. It was great to work with Menter Mon and British Wool to arrange this day. Despite the low prices currently experienced for wool, we must be positive, and support all efforts and opportunities to market wool, and the British Wool Traceability scheme is an example of this. We have a great story to tell about our product, and we must take every advantage.”

Elen Parry of Menter Mon said:

“It was nice to be part of the event on the Rhiwaedog family farm and to share a few words about the Made and Wool project. Where better to show how sustainable wool is, as a natural fibre that contributes to this incredible landscape and its biodiversity. We want to see a future where the value of wool and what it can offer us is better appreciated.

“Through the project with our partners British Wool, The Biocomposites Centre, and the Wool Testing Authority we hope to add value to wool through innovation, building a network of stakeholders and supporting farmers to gain a better understanding of the quality of their wool. We are all working together to realise the potential of wool and to share the vision of the 'Wool Manifesto for Wales'.”

Gareth Jones, Head of member communications at British Wool said:

“Since the pilot scheme during the 2021 season, we are seeing increasing interest in the British Wool Traceable Scheme from the bedding sector. With traceability now more than ever, at the forefront of consumer buying trends, this scheme supports consumers in their decision-making processes, but also creates new demand and adds value to those farmers whose wool is sold as part of the traceable scheme.”