Watch more of our videos on Shots!
and live on Freeview channel 276

Robert Macauley of Mid Down group (dairy), Robert and Ross Bradley of North East Derry group (beef and sheep), Sean and Ciaran McNaughton of North Antrim group (big bale) and Clifton and Jonathan Dickson of North East Armagh group (alternative forage) took top honours in the competition, which saw a record number of entries from farmers.

Commenting, UFU deputy president, John McLenaghan, said: “The UFU’s annual silage competition has always encouraged farmers to produce silage to exceptional levels and once again, this year’s competition entries were to the highest standard. We were especially encouraged by the number of members entering the competition for the first time. Good silage making has always been a key element of farming in Northern Ireland, where we rely heavily on our ability to grow forage for our livestock sector, but also with increases to input costs, it’s more important now than ever.

“We would like to extend our thanks to the United Feeds’ advisory team, CAFRE, UFU group managers and most importantly our farmers, for continuing to support the competition.”

Clarence Calderwood United Feeds event sponsor, Elizabeth Calvin CAFRE NI Judge, Derek Lough UFU membership director. (Pic: UFU)

Clarence Calderwood, United Feeds, added: “We are delighted to continue our support of the annual silage competition. High quality forage is a key element on all ruminant farms and its importance has never been higher as we strive to maximise milk or meat from forage in order to meet forthcoming sustainability objectives. Congratulations to the winners of this year’s competition who come from right across the province and have exceptionally good forages. We were delighted with the number of entries again this year and thank the UFU for organising the competition.”

The full list of winners is:

Dairy

1st Robert Macauley, Mid Down group;