The Belclare breed will be strongly represented at the National Ploughing Championships this year, with some outstanding sheep on display. This will include the 2016 All Ireland and National Champion ram from the Rathkenty Flock, who will also display some of his crossbred daughters.

Declan Miley will also provide pedigree ewes in the form of his outstanding hogget ewe who went through the season unbeaten, claiming four supreme championships as well as being crowned champion sheep at Moate Show.

Belclare sheep continue to grow in popularity, with commercial farmers looking to maximise profits from their flocks through increased lamb production.

According to the society the Belclare breed has progressed through the hard work of dedicated breeders, from being regarded as a replacement breed to now being able to rival the terminal breeds as well.