NEXT GENERATION sheep farmers can apply for funding from the National Sheep Association to attend the biennial Sheep Breeders Round Table this November.

The cross-industry organised three-day conference is a technical event attracting sheep farmers, breeders, researchers and vets from across the UK and beyond, and NSA is involved as part of the event's steering group.

In a show of support for the future of the industry, the NSA Next Generation project is this year offering to fund one enthusiastic young sheep farmer to attend the conference, and expand their knowledge and appetite for the latest thinking on sheep genetics.

NSA communications officer Katie James explained: “Attendance at SBRT can provide young farmers who have an interest in developing their sheep flock or career as a shepherd with the perfect opportunity to hear from some of the country’s leading experts on a range of research topics. It is also an excellent networking event with chance to speak informally with some well-known names from the world of sheep breeding research and fellow pedigree enthusiasts.”

The funded place offered by NSA Next Generation will include the full three days of the conference as well as accommodation and meals. Mrs James continues: “This event is well suited to young sheep breeders with a keen interest in pedigree breeding and research to move the industry forward. We look forward to receiving applications from sheep farmers aged 18 to 35 who believe attendance at the conference could truly benefit them at this time.”

Young sheep farmers who would like to apply for the funded place should visit the NSA Next Generation website – www.nationalsheep.org.uk – and do so before Monday September 30.