Scotland's Boclair herd were named as the Holstein UK Premier Pedigree Herd of 2017 at the recent UK Dairy Day.

David and John Brewster, who run the Boclair herd, have enjoyed years of success, claiming multiple titles at regional and national level.

National judge, and 2016 winner, Andrew Birkle of the Winchat herd, commented that every herd in the 2017 competition was of a fantastic standard, and that deciding on the winner had been a tough decision. Reserve champion was awarded to RJ and H Clare of the Hawksmoor Herd, and honourable mention went to Messrs Winter of the Corringham Herd.

The Brewster's run 850 acres, mostly at Boclair with additional land at the nearby Bogton, Bardowie and Branziet farms. There are 482 acres of arable land, whilst 360 acres are kept for silage and grazing during the summer months.

There are 200 cows in the herd and a further 300 youngstock. All cows and calves are based at Boclair, housed in cubicle sheds during the winter months, and all heifers are artificially inseminated using high genomic sexed semen. In terms of classification, there are over 140 animals classified either VG or EX. The herd has a twelve-month rolling average of 12,312 litres at 3.77% butterfat and 3.22% protein.

Commenting on his herd, David Brewster said: “I have always had a strong interest in high quality cattle and being a part of an animal’s journey and seeing them thrive to success is what fuels my passion. Being able to track ancestry, record performance and genetic information to breed an animal that, down the line, will have even greater genetic potential is what I find particularly exciting.

"Improved longevity is a major consideration for today’s industry and breeding for better udder traits, feet and legs and locomotion plays a huge part in this.”

David added that one bull which stood out in Boclair history was Boclair Objective, which was registered over 20 years ago and has since done exceptionally well, having a great impact on the herd.

Holstein UK president David Perry said: “A huge congratulations goes to the Boclair herd and the Brewster family. This is a remarkable family set-up with quality of animals, performance and genetics right at the heart of the progressive business. As part of the Premier Herd title, Holstein UK will be organising a farm open day at Boclair in 2018. This will enable us to gain first hand insight into the farm’s genetics, breeding and set-up, as well as enjoying a look around Boclair animals.”