SOUTHERN REGION
Regional Contact Member – Peter Gorringe
Following on from the success of the Southern Region open day last October (full report elsewhere in this Journal), a lambing day was organised for members recently which proved a great success.
Southern Region member, Natalie Ceeney, writes: “On Sunday 9th Feb, the Southern Region JSS gathered in Peter Gorringe’s Shutecombe Flock lambing shed to discuss lambing tips. Joined by Ellie Van Mer from Plumpton College, and accompanied by the baas of Peter’s ewes we discussed good lambing practice and top tips as the rain poured down outside and the winds howled.
With cake and hot tea to keep us warm we found that even the most experienced amongst us had things to learn. We shared views on what probiotics to use at birthing, iodine techniques, tagging versus spray numbering new born lambs, CIDR versus natural timing of conception, and bedding/disinfectant techniques for the lambing shed. We had extensive debate about when to intervene in a difficult lambing, and even found time to discuss tips on getting sheepskins made, the best walk-in feeders for Jacob lambs, and castration versus leaving ram lambs intact.
Keeping us on our toes, we were then taken out in the rain and mud to see Peter’s stunning two and four horn rams, and were subsequently tested to see if we could tell which ram sired some selected lambs. After admiring the wonderful lambs, having guessed correctly in most cases, we retreated to the local pub offering a roaring fire, draft ale, roast dinners and steak pies.
Many thanks to Peter, Tom, Frances and family for their hospitality and generosity in hosting a great event.”
Looking ahead, a trimming workshop to help members get ready for the showing season has been arrange by king invitation of Natalie Ceeney on June 8th at her Hallwood flock in Kent. Full details on the Southern Region webpage in due course.
