The sudden and untimely death of Co Antrim sheep farmer Sam Wharry has robbed the farming community of a tremendous ambassador.

Sam had devoted his life to sheep breeding on his farm at Carnlough and to the improvement of sheep production in general through his involvement in research on-farm and his service to the National Sheep Association (NSA).

He served as regional chair of the organisation in NI, was a dedicated office holder with the regional council for many years, and in January 2015 Sam was elected as UK chair of the the NSA, for a three-year term.

In a tribute, the NSA stated that Sam proved to be a true ambassador, not only for the association but also the wider sheep industry with his wealth of sheep farming knowledge.

He was particularly passionate about attracting young people into the industry, being an active supporter of the NSA Next Generation project since its creation, and entering into a share-farming agreement on his own farm in recent years.

Distinction

As a member, and subsequently as chair of the sheep advisory committee of AgriSearch, Sam served with genuine distinction.

He gave freely of his time to attend meetings and warmly welcomed visitors to his farm.

In all of these activities, he was plainly seen as a thoroughly decent and modest person, with a keen understanding and sense of purpose in the work about which he was passionate. To his share-farming partner and the family circle, we offer our sincere sympathy.