The National Sheep Association (NSA) is delighted to announce that Northern Ireland sheep farmer Edward Adamson has been named the recipient of the 2025 NSA George Hedley Memorial Award, recognising his outstanding contribution to the UK sheep industry.

Edward farms with his family near Carrickfergus, County Antrim, and has been a respected representative for the sector for many years attending countless industry meetings with officials and championing the interests of sheep farmers both in Northern Ireland and across the UK.

His commitment to the industry was recognised in 2016 when he was made an Associate of the Council for Awards of Royal Agricultural Societies (CARAS), and again in 2021 when this was elevated to a Fellowship. He is also an active member of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS), currently serving as Deputy Chairman of the Sheep Committee and as a valued member of the RUAS Council.

A long-time supporter of pedigree breed development, Edward has been closely involved with several breed societies, including the Clun Forest, Dutch Spotted, Ile de France and Lleyn.

Reflecting on the award, Edward says: “I am surprised but delighted to receive the George Hedley Memorial Award. When I look at the calibre of previous winners and this year’s nominees, I still find it hard to believe. I have always enjoyed being involved in the sheep industry and have particularly appreciated the role of NSA in supporting the sector.”

Edward has been involved with NSA for more than 30 years, during which he has served as NSA Northern Ireland Development Officer, Regional Treasurer and Chairman. His dedication was previously recognised with the NSA Bob Payne Award for an Unsung Hero in 2010, and in 2024 he was awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List for services to agriculture.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker comments: “ All at NSA are thrilled that Edward has been chosen for this award. It is a thoroughly well deserved recognition of his long-standing dedication and the positive influence he continues to have on the sheep industry.”

NSA Northern Ireland Coordinator Ellen Moorehead adds: “Throughout his career, Edward has been instrumental in advancing and promoting the sheep sector in Northern Ireland. His service, spanning nearly four decades, truly embodies the spirit of this award recognising a lifetime of achievement and meaningful contribution to the farming community.”

The NSA George Hedley Memorial Award will be formally presented at the NSA Sheep Event Dinner on Monday 27 July 2026, ahead of the NSA’s flagship Sheep Event at the Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire, on Tuesday 28 July 2026.