The National Sheep Association is demonstrating its commitment to the next generation by staging the NSA Young Shepherd of the Year Award at NSA Sheep 2010.

The event, the industry's biennial specialist show, is staged by the National Sheep Association at the Three Counties Show Ground, Malvern, on August 3.

The award, with £2,000 at stake, is open to college students, YFC members and young people up to 26 years old, and is designed to test their shepherding skills in a pentathlon of activities.

Each entrant will be required to sort finished lambs for slaughter, demonstrate handling, vaccinating and dosing techniques, erect an electric fence, and put an ATV through its paces.

"Helping to equip tomorrow's sheep keepers with the skills they need, and giving recognition once those skills have become honed, is a must for any forward-thinking industry association such as the NSA," said its chief executive and Devon farmer Peter Morris.

"The NSA is pleased to host and support the pentathlon event, since we are acutely aware that the biggest long-term challenge facing the sheep industry is to encourage young people to be involved.

"It is important to emphasise that anyone choosing to enter the shepherding profession should do so knowing that the many skills they possess can lead to them earning a decent living and enjoying a good quality of life," he added. "While times are never easy for sheep keepers, those with the best range of skills and an eye for business are most likely to succeed.

"Competitions such as this are a good incentive to encourage the next generation of shepherds to try to better themselves and look forward to working in a profitable and sustainable industry."

The NSA Shepherd of the Year Award entry form may be downloaded from www.sheep event.org.uk.

Further information is available from the NSA Sheep 2010 organiser, Helen Davies, on 01938 590535.