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North Wales
23/04/2021 11:06:17
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North Wales Holstein Club Pioneers

The North Wales Holstein Club celebrates 25 years since forming on March 7th 1996; a look back through history notes some of the pioneers of the region.

Several animals in the first BFCS 1914 Dutch Importation went to North Wales. Whilst in the 1922 South African important, William Holland of Rhyd, Wrexham purchased several outstanding individuals including the top priced Llanfair Dillinia 4,300gns to establish the Llanfair herd of J Horridge, Anglesey.

The Canadian importation (1946) saw WR Griffiths’s Montgomery herd commence the noted Gerben Again cow family. Many of these descendants can be found in A M Jones’ Calcourt herd.

The prominence of Canadian bloodlines continued with the Milk Marketing Board introduction of MMB Griffland, the influential MMB Linmack and numerous sons throughout 1970’s and 1980’s.

On the advice of E G Griffiths, Plas Newydd (BFCS President, 1958), R V Jones (Rhydydelyn) purchased Noremead Mercury from Ben Cooper, Wiltshire. His grand sire was the noted ABC Reflection Sovereign, tracking back to the Mount Victoria Herd.

The Aintree Herd established by Fred Pilkington, Wrexham, also imported Canadian bloodlines with Rosalee Citation R another Canadian giant behind the noted Nugget family.

Whilst today’s selections are based on "figures" undoubtedly the skill of the pedigree breeder remains with their stockman’s eye and ability in blending both these elements, as enthusiasts continue with the tradition of registering such animals .


 

The next generation of enthusiasts continue the tradition through HYB Showmanship and Calf classes, providing a platform to develop these interests together with learning key life skills.

Dyfrig Hughes