NI Dexter Cattle Group visit Tynan Abbey Estate

FOLLOWING on from an action-packed week at Balmoral Show, members of the NI Dexter Cattle Group spent a relaxing afternoon visiting Tynan Abbey Estate, just outside Tynan, Co Armagh.

The Estate, which is farmed by Kate Kingan and Peter Mant, covers 850 acres of rolling Armagh countryside. Part of the Northern Ireland Sheep Programme, the enterprise comprises of 630 breeding ewes, 200 head of pedigree Dexter cattle and a small, commercial suckler herd.

After an overview of the Estate and farming enterprise from Peter, followed by some refreshments the Group was given a talk from Linden Supply Chain Manager, Keith Williamson, about the Dexter Beef Scheme operated by Linden, for Marks and Spencer’s stores in London. The Group was delighted to hear how this was operating and the success it has had over 18 months of operation. Keith also informed the Group of the outlook for the scheme which was looking very positive.

Afterwards the Group set off to explore the estate and view the magnificent herd of cattle which were in several groups throughout the farm.

Throughout the walk Peter gave a comprehensive talk on the history of Tynan Abbey Estate and surrounding area from the 13th Century right up to the present day.

Despite some threatening rain showers the Group escaped relatively lightly from the weather all afternoon, which allowed them to take in some of the fantastic scenery on offer throughout the walk.

Upon returning from their walk, and after thanking their hosts Peter and Kate, the Group reconvened in the village hall in nearby Caledon, Co Tyrone, for a bite to eat, which was very welcome after the afternoon walk.

The NI Dexter Cattle Group would like to thank hosts Kate Kingan and Peter Mant of Tynan Abbey for hosting a fabulous visit, and Keith Williamson, Linden, for his discussion surrounding the Dexter beef scheme.

The NI Group is holding a series of events throughout the year to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Group.