Pembrokeshire Dairy Farmers Shine at Welsh Dairy Show, Showcasing Industry Excellence
Source: DairyNews.today
Pembrokeshire’s dairy producers achieved commendable success at the recent Welsh Dairy Show held in Carmarthen, where accolades ranged from high-level industry awards to top prizes for exceptional livestock.
With an emphasis on the critical role of dairy farming, High Sheriff of Dyfed Helen Jones reminded attendees of the industry's importance, calling it the “most important industry to life.” Despite a slightly reduced turnout, the quality of entries remained exceptional at the United Counties Showground.
The event featured top dairy cattle, including notable performances in the Jersey category. James Evans of Llawhaden took top honors as the Jersey breed champion with his entry, Mydrim Tequila’s Spring Tracy. Evans also claimed the Champion Calf award with Mydrim Chocochip Ceres, while the Reserve Champion Calf was awarded to A H Wilson & Son from Tregibby Farm, Cardigan, for Tregibby Rager Lustre Red. The Wilson family further cemented their presence by winning both the Interbreed Group of Three Championship and the Best Holstein Pair, underscoring their commitment to excellence in Welsh dairy farming.
The show also served as a platform to recognize outstanding contributions to the dairy industry. Stephen James, a well-respected milk producer from Gelliolau Farm in Bethesda, near Narberth, received the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) Special Contribution Service Award. With over two decades of service to the industry, including his leadership as former president of NFU Cymru, James was celebrated for his dedication to advocacy, particularly in raising awareness on the impact of bovine tuberculosis (TB). Drawing from his 25 years of experience managing TB within his own farm, James has played a pivotal role in advocating for the Welsh Government’s TB Eradication Strategy.
“It was quite a shock to hear the news,” said James upon receiving the award. “I am extremely grateful, especially at an event so important to the Welsh dairy sector.”
Recognition also extended to William Davies of Fynnonbrodyr, Clynderwen, who was awarded the 2024 NFU Cymru/NFU Mutual Dairy Stockperson of the Year. Known for his hands-on management of his family’s Holstein herd, Davies oversees a wide array of responsibilities, from day-to-day herd management to genetic selection and herd nutrition. Following his studies in agriculture at Harper Adams University, Davies returned to the family farm, bringing a forward-thinking approach to herd productivity and health.
Jonathan Wilkinson, Chair of the NFU Cymru Dairy Board, praised Davies’ commitment, stating, “William’s passion and vision for the Welsh dairy industry is inspiring. His drive to grow and enhance the business marks him as a deserving recipient of this award.”
The Welsh Dairy Show highlighted the high standards and dedication of Pembrokeshire’s dairy producers, showcasing both exemplary livestock and a commitment to advancing the sector’s growth and sustainability.
The event featured top dairy cattle, including notable performances in the Jersey category. James Evans of Llawhaden took top honors as the Jersey breed champion with his entry, Mydrim Tequila’s Spring Tracy. Evans also claimed the Champion Calf award with Mydrim Chocochip Ceres, while the Reserve Champion Calf was awarded to A H Wilson & Son from Tregibby Farm, Cardigan, for Tregibby Rager Lustre Red. The Wilson family further cemented their presence by winning both the Interbreed Group of Three Championship and the Best Holstein Pair, underscoring their commitment to excellence in Welsh dairy farming.
The show also served as a platform to recognize outstanding contributions to the dairy industry. Stephen James, a well-respected milk producer from Gelliolau Farm in Bethesda, near Narberth, received the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) Special Contribution Service Award. With over two decades of service to the industry, including his leadership as former president of NFU Cymru, James was celebrated for his dedication to advocacy, particularly in raising awareness on the impact of bovine tuberculosis (TB). Drawing from his 25 years of experience managing TB within his own farm, James has played a pivotal role in advocating for the Welsh Government’s TB Eradication Strategy.
“It was quite a shock to hear the news,” said James upon receiving the award. “I am extremely grateful, especially at an event so important to the Welsh dairy sector.”
Recognition also extended to William Davies of Fynnonbrodyr, Clynderwen, who was awarded the 2024 NFU Cymru/NFU Mutual Dairy Stockperson of the Year. Known for his hands-on management of his family’s Holstein herd, Davies oversees a wide array of responsibilities, from day-to-day herd management to genetic selection and herd nutrition. Following his studies in agriculture at Harper Adams University, Davies returned to the family farm, bringing a forward-thinking approach to herd productivity and health.
Jonathan Wilkinson, Chair of the NFU Cymru Dairy Board, praised Davies’ commitment, stating, “William’s passion and vision for the Welsh dairy industry is inspiring. His drive to grow and enhance the business marks him as a deserving recipient of this award.”
The Welsh Dairy Show highlighted the high standards and dedication of Pembrokeshire’s dairy producers, showcasing both exemplary livestock and a commitment to advancing the sector’s growth and sustainability.