The decision was taken in late 2014 to move away from mainstream lamb production and enter the pedigree sector. The “Usk Vale” flock of Texels was established.

From the outset it was decided that only females of the highest genetic merit would be sourced. The first and, maybe, one of the most significant purchases was £15,000 “Forkins Una,” from Mr Alastair Gault. A ewe with exceptional style and size. We anticipate she will leave her mark on the flock in years to come. Undefeated on the show circuit in 2014, she was champion at Balmoral & Ballymoney and interbreed champion at Castlewellan & Ballymena.

The second purchase came in early 2015, when the opportunity arose to purchase the entire flock of embryo recipients, carrying the 2014 flush from Mr Jimmy Douglas, of the highly regarded Cairness flock. Embryo’s were sired by the outstanding Tamnamoney Turbo Gold and Mellor Vale The One. The dam lines include several sisters to 30,000gns Cairness Ranger, the dam of 6,500gns Cairness Sportsman and arguably, the most prolific ewe in the flock 1074 who has bred tremendously for JD, along with a daughter of hers. 1074 and the dam of Cairness Sportsman along with a tremendous daughter of Perfection have now joined the Usk Vale flock.

The foundation females were chosen particularly for their character, conformation and mobility.

Usk Vale Texels will be offered for sale at the majority of national sales and there will be a selection of both males and females for sale privately, alongside a selection of embryos.