A busy winter programme for Derbyshire Holstein Club began with the ever-popular four-way quiz, attended by members of Derbyshire Holstein Club, Staffordshire Holstein Club and the Derbyshire and Staffordshire Ayrshire Clubs. More than 60 people took part in the quiz, set by Rob Simister, enjoying a pie and chip supper halfway through and finishing with some very dubious bulls made from modelling balloons!
On 6 March we enjoyed an evening meeting with Holstein UK’s own Michael Parkinson. The presentation focussed on the benefits of Type Classification as a management tool, with a multitude of data showing the correlation between higher final scores and increased longevity and productivity. In the second half of the evening Michael reminded us of just how much information is available on the Holstein UK website for members to assist in their breeding decisions, accessible through the Breeding Toolbox. The evening finished with plenty of informal discussion and supper.
On 26 March we held our AGM, with guest speaker Nick Everington from RABDF. Nick presented on the various roles of the RABDF in promoting British dairying and rewarding excellence in the industry.
At the beginning of March, Ron Tomkinson (Coxongreen) judged the Winter Herd Competition.
Fiona Kent
Herd Competition Results
Best female family
1, S & P Hill, Pamela
2, W Buntin & Co, Contented
3, J M & D Shepherd & Sons, Nina
Best winter homebred heifer - inspection only
1, W Bunting & Co, Alsopledale Goldstar Faith
2, J D & B F Broadley & Sons, Brundcliffe Miss Trump
3, J M & D Shepherd & Sons, Meldamar Talent Vogue 53
Best winter cow on inspection & production
1, S & P Hill, Hydaways Duplex Betsy
2, H Dutton Ltd, Royan Laita 14
3, A & J M Bunting & Co, Alsopdale Aster 145
Best winter group
1, S & P Hill
2, J M & D Shepherd & Sons
3, W Bunting & Co
