A ewe from a flock based near Askham has gained the ultimate accolade in a national show and sale of what has been dubbed “the world’s cutest sheep”.
Jackie and Jack Simonini, of Valais Blacknose Sheep Lakeland, were awarded their first overall supreme champion title at the 2023 Blacknose Beauties National Show and Sale, which was held at Borderway mart, Carlisle, on Friday and Saturday.
Jackie and Jack — whose Moorahill flock was the first Valais Blacknose flock established in the Lake District almost 10 years ago — won the prized title with a two-year-old ewe called Moorahill Ingot which had earlier taken the female championship.
Jackie said: “Wow, we are still in shock and can’t quite believe it. It’s the ultimate and we never dreamt we could win it. Ingot is an absolute superstar and she made my job very easy.
She added: “The icing on the cake was to have the Swiss breeders there and get their full approval — wow.”
The Valais Blacknose breed originates in Switzerland and is a dual purpose type, raised both for meat and for wool from its highly distinctive fleece. It is also noted for its docile, friendly nature.
Enthusiasts from around the world came together at the show and sale at Carlisle, which attracted almost 200 entries. Saturday’s action culminated with a live and online sale which saw 31 lots sold. The top price went to Steve Dace, of Valais Blacknose Sheep Cheshire, whose two-year-old ram Cheshire Incredible Hulk sold for a breed record price of 18,000gns.
