Page 11 - Britich Blue Year Book 2023

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Many of you will have lost loved ones and we send our
thoughts and sympathies to you all.
Our AGM was held on 12th May 2023, at the Shepherds
Inn, Carlisle. Again, we had postal voting to speed up the
process and reduce the risk of mistakes, and we saw Jim
Barber, John O’Kell and Stephen Hough voted back on to
Council.
We also welcomed our new President, who holds the
position for 2 years, Mr. Geoff Walker of the Brennand
Herd, a much-respected showman and breeder.
I urge any of you who have the sight to take the breed to
the next level, to consider putting forward for Council. New
blood always creates fresh air!
I must thank Anne Morrison, who, for personal reasons
retired the Northern Ireland seat. Anne, who was also a
past President, always brought good debate and insight
to the Council table, regarding the situation in Northern
Ireland and we all thank her for her dedication over the
years. This left the one-year seat vacant, and the Council
unanimously agreed to co-opt Oliver McCann to fill this
position until the post comes up for election in 2025.
Oliver has since accepted, and we look forward to his
presence.
I would like to thank all Council members who freely give
up their time and bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.
Many of you will be aware that the British Blue Cattle
Society, relinquished its interest in Pedigree Livestock
Services at the end of 2023. After taking professional
advice, from many sources, it was felt that the liability was
too great for the BBCS to stand.
We now contract our work to Pedigree Livestock Services;
Andy Ryder remains as Company Secretary and Diane
Hayton our Society Administrator. I must thank them both
for the depth of work and dedication they express for the
British Blues.
Looking to the future, the beef industry faces many
challenges, but I think the British Blue can tick many of the
challenge boxes. Registrations remain static, which bodes
well for future sales.
Society officials will be attending many shows throughout
the UK, during 2024, please take time to have a chat with
them, as your input is greatly valued.
I wish you all a very happy and healthy 2024 and great
success with your cattle.
Chairman
Graham
Brindley
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