Welsh shearer sets new British Shearing Record

Welsh shearer sets new British Shearing Record

The 9 Hour British Lamb Shearing record was beaten for the second time in a week when Brecon based Lloyd Rees shorn 902 lambs. On Friday, champion shearer Lloyd was successful in his record breaking attempt beating the previous record of 881 lambs held by Nick Greaves.

Lloyd began shearing at 5am for two hours, followed by four one hour 45 minute runs with the challenge ending at 5pm. at Blaenbwch Farm, Maesmynys, Builth Wells, Powys, where he was surrounded by the support of family and friends, as well as sheep farmers and shearers from all over the UK.

Speaking afterwards Lloyd said:  “I am delighted, holding a British Shearing Record has always been a long time ambition and to shear over 900 in a day, made the occasion even more special.  All the hard work and preparation over the last 12 months has paid off. ”

“Preparing for the record involved a very strict fitness and diet regime, it was tough at times but achieving what I’ve achieved, with the support of family, friends and the shearing community across Wales has made it all worthwhile.”

At the end of his successful record attempt Lloyd thanked everyone that had supported him, Lloyd said: “Today would not have been possible without the support of a huge team of helpers, a record such as this takes a lot of organizing so thank you for all your support, each and every one of you have made an important contribution in helping me achieve this record here today.

I’d like to dedicate this record to my mum and dad who have always encouraged and supported me.”

He added: “We also wish to thank all our sponsors for their kind support, Lister have been involved from day one in supporting me on my journey and also British Wool. I started my shearing journey learning on British Wool courses and without those courses, I’d not be here.”

Commenting on the successful record attempt, Gareth Jones, Head of Member Communications at British Wool said:  “On behalf of British Wool, I would like to congratulate Lloyd on what was a tremendous achievement.

“This challenge has taken a lot of preparation and this success will help raise the profile and importance of shearing as a skill, we congratulate Lloyd on his success.”

Fundraising for two charities - the Welsh Air Ambulance and Parkinsons UK – took place on the day with an auction of items and a raffle.