THE British Wool Marketing Board (BWMB) has reported a big increase in the number of young people attending sheep shearing courses this year.

Nearly 1,400 people have attended the courses - and more than a third were first timers.

Colin MacGregor, BWMB shearing manager, said he was extremely encouraged by the figures.

He said: "It's very rewarding to know that so many young people are keen to master sheep shearing techniques and that the Wool Board can continue to lead the way in maintaining high standards of shearing sheep.

"As well as providing a pool of expertise here in the UK, the rapid improvement in UK shearing skills has been clearly proved in the success enjoyed by British shearers in competition against some of the best of the world's shearers in New Zealand earlier this year."

BWMB training courses covered a wide range of management skills, including sheep health, hoof care, sheepdog handling and lambing.

A new programme is planned for next year and the board would welcome ideas from sheep farmers.

Anyone with suggestions or who wants information on courses is asked to contact Fiona McNulty on 01274-688666.