Livestock 2012: Worcestershire family win Gold Cup
The Miller family, of Shanael Holsteins in Worcestershire have won the prestigious NMR/RABDF Gold Cup.
After being placed runners up in last year’s competition the family – led by Mike and Shan and sons Paul and Steve – was awarded with the coveted trophy on the opening day of the Livestock Event 2012.
Since last year yield has improved by 535kg to reach an average of 12,199kg a cow, at 3.6% fat and 3.08% protein on a three-times-a-day milking routine.
The family, from Grenville Hall farm, Evesham, Worcestershire, has increased herd size in the past 12 months from 280 to 320 head and they plan to reach 350 by the end of the year.
With a focus on expansion the family has stepped up their health and fertility management, with more aggressive heat detection and monitoring alongside their vet.
Judge and RABDF Chairman David Cotton said: “The family has a fantastic knowledge of breeding.
“They know their business and have worked really hard to grow it. They really are on top of their game.”
Runners up were David and Louise Hodgson from Wormanby Farm, Burgh on Sands, Carlisle, with their herd of 145 Holsteins, averaging 10,761kg a cow at 3.76% fat and 3.12% protein.
More on Livestock 2012