More than 50 young Beef Shorthorn enthusiasts and new society members participated in the breed society’s annual development workshop which, for the first time, was staged in Northern Ireland.

The event featured a series of hands-on workshops, presentations and discussions including embryo transfer, EBVs, stock-judging and showring preparation skills.

First stop was the Gill Hall Estate, Dromore, where host farmer James Porter introduced guests to his family’s Uppermill Beef Shorthorn herd.

The following day the workshop moved on to the Glenarm Estate, Ballymena, where farm manager, Bryan Wilson led a tour around his 100-cow Beef Shorthorn suckler herd.

Beef student of the year, Orla Kelly who is studying BSc (Hons) agricultural technology with professional studies, at Queen’s University Belfast, made her award-winning presentation which explored the potential effects Brexit could have on both Northern Ireland and British agriculture.

“The weekend was a huge success bringing together youngsters and breed newcomers from as far afield as Perthshire, North Yorkshire, Worcestershire and Gloucesterhire, as well as members from throughout Northern Ireland,” commented organiser, Tina Russell.

“Apart from both individuals and families enjoying the social camaraderie and passion for the breed, they had two full-on days developing skills, generating new ideas and sharing experiences."