Entries open for young farmers’ overwintering competition at Thainstone Centre
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Entries are open for Aberdeen and Northern Marts’ annual young farmers’ overwintering competition at the Thainstone Centre, Inverurie.
Now in its 28th year, the highly regarded contest gives young farmers in the north region the opportunity to enhance their stockmanship skills through purchasing cattle at the autumn sales, rearing them throughout the winter and then selling them in the spring at Thainstone.
“We are delighted to welcome entries for this year’s young farmers’ overwintering event which has become a highlight in our calendar at Thainstone,” said Robin Anderson, head of livestock operations for Aberdeen and Northern Marts.
“This event provides an excellent opportunity for the next generation to increase their livestock business knowledge and compete with their peers.”
This year’s competition will again be sponsored by full-service law firm Ledingham Chalmers and will come to an end in March.
Jennifer Young, managing partner at Ledingham and Chalmers, said: “Over the years, the young farmers’ overwintering competition has attracted and inspired the next generation of farmers.
"From reaping the commercial benefits of a fresh perspective to securing a sustainable future for the sector, its benefits are clear and that’s why we continue to play a role in encouraging new entrants to the industry through this sponsorship. All the very best of luck to those taking part and we look forward to March.”
Young farmers will be able to purchase cattle for the event at the annual sale of 750 spring-born calves on Saturday, October 24 which includes tremendous entries from top commercial producers.
With strict Covid-19 restrictions in place at Aberdeen and Northern Marts’ centres, no persons under the age of 16 can attend the sales so those wishing to purchase, much send a parent/carer or sibling to buy the cattle.
Online bidding will also be available through the Thainstone Online platform, allowing young farmers to place bids on cattle from home.
Please only attend the sale if you are genuinely interested in purchasing stock and register with the mart office ahead of the sale.
It is also strongly recommended that everyone visiting the mart wears a face mask.
Animals for the contest can be purchased at both Thainstone Centre and Caithness Livestock Centre by Friday, November 27.
