IAN Brooksbank, head grader with the British Wool Board, has been presented with the Frank Williams Trophy for his outstanding work for the Cotswold Sheep Society.
He was nominated by members for his contribution to the society through educational talks, regular judging and helpful feedback.
The Cotswold Sheep Society was established in the 1890s when it represented the owners of 22 flocks. Today, the Cotswold is classed as a rare breed, although its wool is still known as the “golden fleece”.
Davina Stanhope, chairman, said: “The Cotswold Sheep Society is delighted to offer Ian this prestigious award in recognition of his ongoing and invaluable service to the industry.
“Despite having a young family, he gives his time freely and always goes the extra mile to encourage our members, and ensures that he provides useful feedback when judging. The concentration and level at which he considers the fleeces has to be seen to be believed.
“British Wool works very hard to keep British wool at the forefront of the manufacturing and fashion industries and it is a great supporter of producers at all levels, whatever the size of their flock.
“Ian is certainly a great ambassador for British Wool and it is a privilege to have been able to make this award.”
Mr Brooksbank joined British Wool as a “trolley dolly” at 16, moving trolleys of graded wool through the various processing stages at the depot.
He then joined the organisation’s five-year apprenticeship to learn his trade and become a wool grader.
Now, 26 years later, he is head grader, overseeing the grading team at British Wool’s Bradford depot.
Mr Brooksbank, said he was honoured to receive the award: “Part of my role is engagement, and I thoroughly enjoy attending shows and talking to producers, especially when they are as keen as the members of the Cotswold Sheep Society.
“Personally, I see grading as my vocation, not my job.
“I often go out to visit farms and deliver wool sheets, and to be given the opportunity to meet producers face to face, and provide support
and advice is fantastic.”
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