Love Lamb Week marks decade of dedication

Love Lamb Week, running from 1-7 September, is marking its 10th year, with Northern Ireland’s sheep farmers taking centre stage in a nationwide celebration of lamb’s quality, versatility, and the people and places behind it.

The campaign is celebrating a decade of connecting producers and consumers, and the message remains clear that lamb isn’t just delicious, it’s a story of heritage, hard work and sustainability.

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is spotlighting the resilience and commitment of local sheep farmers, often operating in one of agriculture’s toughest sectors.

See also: Beef and sheep sector reinvigorated by strong trade and rainfall

“To be a sheep farmer, resilience isn’t optional, it’s essential,” said UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy.

“In a sector where incomes are among the lowest and support is limited, our farmers continue to deliver exceptional produce with care, commitment and pride.”

From lambing season to land stewardship, sheep farming is a vital part of Northern Ireland’s rural economy.

“It transforms grass into high-quality, nutrient-rich lamb and helps manage some of our most iconic landscapes,” Mr Cuddy added.

He encouraged everyone to support sheep farmers by choosing lamb.

“Behind every product is care, skill and hard work. Let’s champion our sheep farmers all year round,” said Mr Cuddy.

To mark the occasion, the UFU is rolling out interactive events including an Instagram takeover with farmer Nicole Love, a virtual farm tour for schools, a women in agriculture feature on Sophie McAllister, and the #SheepdogSnapSunday photo competition.

The Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) is also backing Love Lamb Week with strong regional activity.

It will showcase three Northern Ireland sheep farmers, launch a new “Farm in a box” classroom resource, and run consumer events and giveaways.

“Promotion of Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured [NIFQA] lamb, renowned for its quality, sustainability, and provenance, remains a strategic priority,” said LMC chief executive Colin Smith.

“We are encouraged by recent research showing a significant uplift in consumer awareness.”

Heritage sheep project

Meanwhile, the National Sheep Association is using the week to highlight diversity in sheep meat through its British Heritage Sheep project.

“By stating the age, breed, and the countryside where sheep are reared, people can explore this fascinating variety,” said project director Bob Kennard .

“Consumers help preserve ancient breeds and traditional farming simply by choosing native-breed lamb, hogget or mutton.”