The open day at Glantraeth in May was a great success. The weather was kind and about 50 to 60 people attended from as far away as Cornwall, Isle of White, Northampton, South Wales, Isle of Man, Ireland and various parts of Scotland. The two speakers were excellent. Dr John Vipond of the Scottish Agricultural College who spoke on the concept of "Easy Care" sheep farming emphasized that Easy Care does not mean No Care. He went on to stress the importance of not disturbing the flock at lambing time. Mr John Parsons, a farmer from the Isle of Wight who has 10 years experience of the Easy Care breed and system, spoke very highly of the low cost aspect of the system and the breed. The outcome of the day was the sale of a few females available and 30 yearling rams with an order for 50 ram lambs to go on hire to one farm in Scotland. There are several enquiries in hand and I'll provide a list of members to those concerned.

At the AGM it was passed that all breeders adopt a "prefix". As mentioned previously the flock number will be the same as your herd number, i.e. UK followed by 6 figures. The possibility of holding a Society Sale was also discussed but it was decided that until the numbers are available we would continue to buy our breeding rams from other breeders.

Mr John Parsons very kindly offered to organise an open day on his farm on the Isle of White in May 2004 - details will follow.

The replies to the questionnaire regarding priorities to breed for were disappointing, only 2 or 3 had any views. This could be interpreted to mean that we are on the right track. The two factors that headed the lists were better conformation and freedom from foot troubles. The only comment I have regarding the former is that we could be creating lambing problems if we are to become too "Texelish". The foot rot factor I wholeheartedly agree with and we should bear this in mind when selecting breeding stock. I have spoken to nearly all the breeders and without exception they are full of praise for the ease of lambing. One breeder was concerned that some of his ram lambs had horns. Throw backs inevitably occur and all we can do is not to keep any rams that show any sign of horns.

I have sent a membership application form to those of you who have not yet paid. Please return them to me as soon as possible. Also, let me know how many tags you need for your lambs (£1 each) and if you have any females for sale or if you want to buy please get in touch.

Iolo Owen

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