The National Farmers’ Union of Wales (NFU Cymru) and its insurance branch (NFU Mutual) have announced the winner of the 2022 Welsh Livestock Champion of the Year award.
Ernie Richards, a shepherd near Clyro, was named the winner of the award at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in Llanelwedd today (Monday, November 28).
He was commended mostly for his enthusiasm for farming and his innovative business skills
“It was clear to see the enthusiasm Ernie has for the agricultural industry as soon as we met with him,” Mike Thomas, NFU Mutual senior agent and NFU Cymru group secretary, said.
“He was passionate about all things sheep but also educating the next generation about where their food comes from and as a young farmer himself this was great to see.”
Ernie Richards
Despite not being from a farming background, Richards’ passion for farming began at a young age.
Richards undertook a four-year degree in agriculture and animal science at Aberstwyth University, and spent time in New Zealand on a beef and sheep station after he graduated.
He currently works as a shepherd for Stuart Morris and his family on their sheep farm near Clyro.
Richards focuses on flock health and performance and has been involved with Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) in a lamb performance trial.
He is also part of a sheep discussion group with Farming Connect and the HCC Meat Quality Project.
“Ernie’s thoughts around mental health and farm safety were especially important and NFU Mutual is pleased to recognise and champion good stockpeople who incorporate the best livestock practices with high standards of on-farm safety,” Thomas added.
Chairperson of the NFU Cymru livestock board, Rob Lewis, reiterated Thomas’ sentiment
“The role Ernie plays in the business is not one we come across very often.
“Ernie uses social media to sell sheep and embracing this has helped the business develop in recent years.
“As a young farmer he is always looking for ways to learn and to improve the way things are done on the farm, and hearing about his enthusiasm for farming, and the care and consideration he gives to all of the tasks he undertakes proves he is a worthy winner for this year’s Livestock Champion of the Year award.”
