Winners' Farm Walk 2026
James Henderson, the winner of the 2025 BGS Grassland Farmer of the Year competition, is hosting a visit to Seafields Farm, County Down, on 3 June 2026.
The Henderson’s beef system utilises beef cross calves from the dairy herd. In October-November, 85–90 heifer calves, mostly British Blue and Aberdeen Angus crosses, are bought in at two to three weeks of age. Following weaning, calves are fed red clover silage bales and a barley-based home-mix before turnout in early April.
The sheep flock of 220 ewes and 60–70 home-bred ewe lambs is in transition from Texel-Rouge crosses to Aberfield-Belclare crosses. Meatlinc and Primera rams are used as terminal sires. Lambing occurs from March to May. Ewes graze the whole farm until scanning. Silage and home-mix are fed in late pregnancy.
Grass is measured using a rising plate meter and AgriNet software is used. Reseeding is carried out approximately every ten years. Glyphosate is sprayed in October followed by an application of farmyard manure (FYM) or seaweed from the neighbouring beach, applied at a rate of 25–30t/ha (10–12t/acre). Following ploughing, winter barley is planted. Post-harvest, either a herbal ley or red clover is established.
The farm tour will start at 11 am prompt, and will be followed by a light lunch at 1 pm.
Booking is free but is required for catering purposes.
Farm location using what3words: https://what3words.com/acclaimed.drivers.height
This will take you to the entrance to the farm. You will be directed to the car parking area.
Important - Biosecurity
- Please ensure the vehicle you are attending in is clean and that there are no heavy mud and manure deposits on tyres and wheel arches.
- Clean boots that can be disinfected must be worn for the walk. All boots must be dipped in the disinfectant provided on arrival at the farm.
Please note that video and photos will be taken at this event. These images may be used for marketing and promotional purposes – both in print and online format. If you do not wish to be filmed or photographed, please let the organiser know.
