Welsh shearer shatters eight-hour British solo ewe record

A young Welsh shearer has carved his name into the record books after an extraordinary display of endurance and precision shearing.

Huw Jones, 27, from Abergynolwyn, Mid Wales, set a new British eight-hour solo ewe shearing record on Saturday.

He sheared 663 ewes at Hendreseifion Farm, Machynlleth – smashing the previous record of 539 held by Martin Howlett.

Hundreds gathered to watch the gruelling feat unfold – with the day starting at 7am and ending at 5pm – marking a moment of celebration for the local farming community and the wider shearing world.

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Speaking after his marathon feat, a visibly emotional Huw paid tribute to his team and supporters. “Records are not just about the shearer attempting, but are very much a team effort,” he said.

“I couldn’t have achieved this today without so many people. I thank you so much for the support you have given me.”

Huw also honoured the support of his family, especially his late grandfather who introduced him to shearing.

“He’s no longer with us, but hopefully looking down today. He was the one who got me started.”

Huw Jones (centre front) with the rest of the team © FFotograffiaeth Elen Williams

The event has raised more than £1,000 for the Welsh Air Ambulance and Aberdyfi Search and Rescue, two charities close to Huw’s heart.

A JustGiving page has been set up for people to donate additional funds.

British Wool’s head of member engagement, Gareth Jones, offered his “huge congratulations” to Huw.

“This was a display of high-quality shearing and sheer determination. We also recognise the team effort it takes to make a record like this happen – well done to everyone involved.”

NZ shearer a ‘big inspiration’

Huw’s journey has included seasons shearing in New Zealand and across the UK, as well as winning the Louise Owen Memorial Shearing Scholarship.

He said top New Zealand shearer Rowland Smith is his inspiration.

“Not only is Rowly an outstanding shearer in shows/records and in the shed, but he also has an incredible work ethic,” said Huw.

“I could never manage lamb shearing until I watched Rowly shear lambs in front of me.

“That is when I finally stopped making excuses of being too tall for lambs and found a way to get it done.”