The Irish Vendéen Sheep society is set to host its all-Ireland finals at Sheep 2018 in Mellows Campus, Athenry, on 9 July. Over 50 sheep from the best Irish, English and French genetics will be on show on the day.

The Vendéen breed, which is known for its hardiness, ease of lambing and killout percentage, will be ably judged by well-known sheep and cattle breeder Michael Oliver from Swinford, Co Mayo.

The Vendéen breed is becoming ever more popular with the commercial sheep farmer and the society sees Sheep 2018 as the perfect event to showcase the advantages the breed has for this market.

The title of Vendéen all-Ireland is much sought after in sheep circles, with this year’s competition set to be stronger than ever.

Last year, Conor and Cheryl O’Brien emerged victorious with a ewe from their Quintrent flock, but many well-known exhibitors are set to try and dash the hopes of a two in a row. Sheep 2018 is set to be a day not to be missed for everybody involved in the sheep sector, and having a quality display of Vendéen sheep for their all-Ireland finals just adds another reason to go.

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