Owens family takes National title as Kerry Hill claims Burwarton interbreed

The Kerry Hill Flock Book Society National Show made history at Burwarton Show this year, with the breed’s premier event hosted at a one-day agricultural show for the first time.

A strong entry of Kerry Hills turned out for the occasion, with judging duties falling to Andrew Fisher, of the Nidderdale flock, who praised an “outstanding show” with “quality right through”.

Mr Fisher said: “It’s a credit to the breeders and I want to thank them all.”

Taking the National Show title was a home-bred yearling ewe from J&P Owens’ Woodhouse 2 flock, Leominster, which came through an exceptionally competitive class of 20 yearling ewes before securing the Female and Overall Championships.

Born in March 2025, the champion is by Woodhouse 2 Diamond and out of a Woodhouse 2 ewe.

The victory continued a remarkable summer for the Owens family, who had already claimed the Kerry Hill championships at the Royal Highland, Great Yorkshire and Royal Welsh Shows with Woodhouse Farm Fendi. This time it was a different yearling ewe which stepped up to secure the breed’s National title.

Ellie Owens said: “We are very pleased with her. She’ll be staying forever, I think.”

Reserve Overall Champion and Male Champion went to Will Evans with the aged ram Woodhouse 2 Defender. Born in March 2023, the Dalwyne Avicii son was bred by the Woodhouse 2 flock and was purchased by Mr Evans at the Society’s Ludlow Sale in 2024.

Reserve Male Champion went to Micheal Nolan with his ram lamb, while the Old School flock of Steven and Elin John secured the Reserve Female Championship with their aged ewe. The Old School team also won the ewe lamb and Group of Three classes.

There was further success for the next generation, with Henri John taking first place in the Young Handler competition, followed by Amelia John in second and Logan Barrett in third.

The National Show champion then provided a fitting finale for the breed, returning to the ring to take the overall Burwarton Interbreed Championship ahead of a strong line-up of breed champions, with the Charollais taking reserve.

It capped a memorable first National Show at Burwarton and another outstanding, well-supported summer in the show ring for the breed.

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