BWNB educates sheep farmers on wool grades

The Open Day gave farmers the opportunity to take part in a guided tour and be walked through all aspects of the depot’s work including wool intake, grading and packing, explains BWMB Producer Communications Manager Gareth Jones.

"Many farmers aren't aware of what happens to their wool once it’s been delivered to the depot and the Open Day gave them a chance to gain a real understanding of how the grading and selling process works.

"For some, wool grading is something of a mystery, but hopefully those who attended the Open Day left with a much better appreciation of why certain wools are more valuable than others. Grading wool is a highly complex job, but it is essential if BWMB is to auction producers’ wool to their best advantage."

Visitors to the Open Day were also given the opportunity to talk to BWMB Regional Board Member, Hugh Blythe, Chief Financial Officer, Angela Marshall - Williams and depot staff, about all aspects of the wool supply chain and the BWMB's work, including marketing, shearing and its involvement in the Campaign for Wool.

Billy Hewitson, Warehouse Manager at the depot also added a fun element to the day with an ‘Identify the Breed’ competition which challenged producers to identify wools from a number of different breeds of sheep. The winning entry coming from David Brown, a farmer's son from Pinmore, Girvan Ayrshire who identified seven correct breeds from the eight in the competition.

Mr Hewitson said "We had an excellent day and thank those who attended for taking the time from their busy schedules to support this event. We welcomed the opportunity to give producers a chance to give valuable feedback on wool pricing and other BWMB activities. We as a depot, as well as the BWMB, are always looking for ways to connect better with producers and Open Days such as this provide a great opportunity for us to interact and to take on board their feedback."

British wool