Clough man John is sheep shear genius

Thanks to sponsorship by Glenfarm, the Glenavy-based agri co-operative, the pair will be fully kitted out and prepared to take on the rest of the world’s shearing talent at the 2010 Championships in Wales.

The sponsorship confirms Glenfarm’s support for the sheep sector and follows its recent offer of a half price collection rate to directly support farmers who suffered significant sheep looses due to the extreme weather conditions of early spring.

Congratulating the duo, Rodney Hume, Commercial Director of Glenfarm said: “Both Kieran and John performed fantastically at Balmoral and we’re delighted that they will now go on to represent Northern Ireland in Wales.

“Having watched the competitors throughout the heats and finals at Balmoral, it is obvious that they represent our shearing elite. We’ve no doubt they’ll do their all to ensure Northern Ireland earns its place on the world shearing map when they compete against their counterparts from the likes of New Zealand, Australia and South Africa in July”.

While Kieran McCullough is no stranger to the event after being awarded 3rd place at the 2009 World Championship in Norway, it is the first time John has qualified but collectively the duo are regarded as highly skilful and very focused, and will represent a strong force in Wales.

Edwin Adams, Chair of the RUAS Sheep Shearing Committee, and a former all-Ireland and UK Champion extended his congratulations to the team: “We were very encouraged by the level of shearing skill and expertise at Balmoral this year, particularly in the junior classes, and we’ve no doubt many of the competitors will go on to consolidate their shearing talents in the years ahead.

“With many years of experience between them Kieran and John are recognised as the elite and are worthy role-models for the future generation of local shearers. We’re confident, thanks to Glenfarm’s support, the team will make Northern Ireland’s sheep sector proud when they take on the world’s best in Wales. We look forward to following their progress.”