Farming News - NSA tailing and castration webinar

NSA tailing and castration webinar

Webinar - Understanding the tailing and castration consultation: A guide for sheep farmers

 

Date: 2nd March 2026

Time: 7.30pm

Location: Online webinar

As Defra undertakes its long‑awaited review of castration and tail docking methods in lambs, the National Sheep Association (NSA) is urging sheep farmers to fully engage with this important consultation. 

This free webinar will help farmers understand what the proposals mean in practice and how to respond effectively.

Have your questions answered before the consultation deadline (Monday 9th March) and hear from the panel of industry experts.

Panel includes:

  • Kate Hovers (Chair)
    Kate is a qualified vet with over 40 years experience, and a particular interest in sheep. She is a past President of the Sheep Veterinary Society and a current director of the Wales Veterinary Science Centre.

     

  • Ann Van Eetvelt 
    Ann runs Lurgan Sheep Vet, helping Scottish farmers. Ann is an experience mixed vet with a deep passion and enthusiasm for flock health, welfare, and productivity. Ann’s dedication to improving sheep farming comes from both her veterinary work and her hands-on experience as a farmer.

     

  • Phil Stocker
    Phil is Chief Executive of the NSA, leading it in its role of providing a voice for the UK sheep sector. Phil’s vision for the NSA an influential and respected organisation leading the UK sheep industry, which is forward-thinking yet maintaining the traditional and cultural aspects that are so valued.

     

  • Michael Priestley
    Michael is NSA Policy Manager. With NSA involved in so many policy topics affecting sheep farming, Michael’s role is managing and coordinating the association’s work to ensure sheep farmers are well represented in all forums and members are kept up-to-date with new developments and ongoing issues.

Whether you routinely carry out these procedures or are considering alternative approaches, this webinar provides essential guidance to help you prepare for potential changes and contribute meaningfully to the consultation.

Register for the webinar here.

Any questions you would like answered during the webinar, please submit here before the webinar begins.