ORGANISERS of Northumberland County Show have begun making preparations for its British Wool Shearing section taking place in May.

Seven hundred sheep have been donated by Lilburn Estates for the six shearing competitions throughout the day, whilst prestigious organisation the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, will be supporting three classes in the show – Woolhandling, Junior and Intermediate, through its donation of prize money.

The company has operated as a livery company since 1180, having prospered through the Middle Ages to the Industrial Revolution, and continues to support all aspects of the wool industry, including shearing.

Chief Steward of the show Chris Chomse said: “It is important that we have a high standard of presentation, with well prepared sheep and smooth operations on the day.

“We are proud to attract world class competitors to our shearing competition, some of whom travel from as far afield as Australia and New Zealand to enter.

“Our affiliation to the English Shearing Circuit means that the winners of our competitions earn points towards the prestigious Shearer of the Year Award, presented at the Great Yorkshire Show in June.”

Peter Ambler from the livery company said: “Despite being an ancient organisation, our mission is to promote wool related industries in the modern world. As a result, 95 per cent of what the company donates is to charities in the sector.”

The county show will take place Monday, May 27. To compete in the shearing competitions or view a schedule of the day visit www.northcountyshow.co.uk