THE NSA North Sheep Next Generation Shepherd Competition 2023, took place Wednesday, June 7, at Bradford House Farm, Belsay, Ponteland.

Winning the Ali Johnson Perpetual Trophy and achieving first place was Michael Hogg from Washington, Tyne & Wear, who is a regular attendee of Darlington Farmers Auction Mart, second place was awarded to Ben Graham from Longwitton and third place was awarded to Oliver Dean from Brampton.

Vickers and Barrass Chartered Surveyors and Darlington Farmers Auction Mart co-sponsored the event and were impressed with the standard of entries.

Adam Barrass, managing director of Vickers and Barrass, said: “The next generation of farming is hugely well supported by Vickers & Barrass and we have a long history in sponsoring next generation competitions over many years at various shows across the county. As farmers ourselves, our farming roots are important to us.

"This year, we enjoyed seeing such enthusiastic young farmers enter this competition. Winner, Michael, has an impressive approach to his enterprise, which was great to see. Ben and Oliver were worthy runners up, in a very competitive field”

Vickers & Barrass and Darlington Farmers Auction Mart are also attending Sedgefield Show on August 12, Wolsingham Show on September 2 and Eggleston Country Show on September 16, year and would be delighted to chat about the industry with the next generations there.