Braid Sheddings Sheep Association

The Braid Sheddings Sheep Association are a group of sheep farmers from the Braid District near Broughshane, Ballymena. They formed as a need to market their sheep, and for the promotion of their annual sale and the local rural area. This area surrounding Slemish Mountain, has a long history and tradition for sheep farming which these farmers are aiming to preserve for the future.

Further information on the group or their sheep sales can be gained through contacting the Broughshane Community Association on (01266) 862777

The 'Sheddings' a focal point for the local community is located in the scenic heart of County Antrim - six miles from Ballymena. The River Braid cuts through this valley on its Journey through the award winning village of Broughshane and then on to the District Town of Ballymena and into Lough Neagh.

From right, Mr. James Armstrong, chairman of the Braid Sheddings Sheep Association being presented with their new brochure designed and produced by Mr.Denver Gordon. Looking on is Mr.Hugh Crawford with one of his prize-winning rams at Ballymena Agricultural Show (1993).

Located in the Braid Valley The Sheddings Is surrounded by mountainous land, part of the Antrim Plateau. This picturesque area Is not only a doorway to the famous Glens of Antrim but this landscape is dominated by Slemish Mountain where, as a young boy, St. Patrick herded sheep. The strong tradition of sheep farming and good shepherding continues to this day.

The annual 'Sheddings Sheep Sale' was started back in 1922. In its early years the sheep were herded down from the hill on foot to this selling point. Today the method of transport has changed but much remains just as before. Whilst the sale is a time to buy and sell - it Is more. It remains a great social occasion. The farmer, their families and the community are all part of this traditional event. The sale represents a strong port of the culture and heritage of this rural area.

The quality Blackface Rams, pictured near the Sheddings with Slemish Mountain in the background.

The Sheddings Sale comes round each year. It marks a time in this community and it is a milestone in the sheep farming community. It is 1an occasion' for this community, right here in the Antrim Hills. It is very important to the sheep farmers. :

This sale is their sale. Each year the sheep farmers await with great expectation to the day of the sale. They hope 'It will go well' -and It has gone well. To-days farmers look with confidence to maintaining the tradition Into a new millennium.

The Sheddings Sale of today has over 3000 sheep on offer. Prize of place goes to the offspring from the Blackface flocks - either the Blackface ewe lambs or the much sought after crossbred ewe lambs. The sale takes place in Mid-August and is the time that the lambs need to come off the mountain. Ewe lambs will be sold to become port of breeding flocks. Mountain wether lambs are guaranteed to thrive when they get 'to the grass'. The Antrim hills are hard hills producing healthy, quality stock. This area and the Sheddings Sale has earned its reputation for, well turned out quality stock. The success of these farmers at local agricultural shows in Ballymena, Ballyclare and Balmoral, shows their standing In the sheep world.

An example of the drystone wall paddocks which is characteristic of this farming area-a long and historic tradition.

The members of the 'Braid Sheddings Sheep Association' share common ideals. They take pride in, value and respect the traditions associated with breeding quality sheep. They recognise the traditions that they have inherited and their responsibility in preserving and enhancing the environmental, the cultural and historic aspects of their locality. They are innovative, adaptable and capable of undertaking development that will help sustain farm businesses and add to the economic prosperity of the area. They have a special bond with people - especially those interested in sheep. They desire to make new business contacts, to build new friendships and to meet others who share an interest in, or a 'love for sheep'. Their sheep helps them make a living, but sheep farming is more than that - 'more a way of life'.

The scenic area surrounding Slemish Mountain, highlighting the harsh agricultural landscape

The Braid Sheddings Sheep Association are keen to promote the quality of stock produced from their Blackface flocks. The Blackfoce breed remains central to sheep farming in this port of the Antrim hills. The Braid farmers are dedicated to continuing this high quality of stockmanshlp and strong traditions for the future.

The Braid Sheddings Sheep Association have I produced a video on what they and their community is about. II you are interested In the video or on further information On the 'Sheddings Sheep Sale' or making contact with the ' Braid Sheddings Sheep Association'