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International Trial President Geraint Owen (l) with FUW Finance and Organisation Committee Member Dewi Owen[/caption]
The Farmers’ Union of Wales has enjoyed three busy and successful days at the International Sheep Dog Trials, held at Sandilands farm, Tywyn.
The Union was represented by the Meirionnydd branch and they were delighted to welcome members and all those participating in the Sheep Dog Trials to the stand.
The FUW was an official sponsor of the event and of course also provided the Wales team with their official jackets.
International Trial President Geraint Owen, who hosted the International Sheep Dog Trials, said: “It was a privilege and honour to be asked to be the International President for this year's International Sheep Dog Trials.
“I was very proud to be involved with a small dedicated local committee and was amazed at the work and organisation needed to hold such a large event. The standard of competition over the three days was exceptionally high and I warmly congratulate the Welsh team on their success.”
Geraint Owen of Sandilands farm, Tywyn is also the Chairman of the local FUW Tywyn branch and has had close connections with the FUW over many years.
Sandilands is a Beef and Sheep farm with around 2000 breeding ewes and 200 breeding limousines and limousine cross suckler cows.
The Owen family have farmed at Sandilands since 1938 when Geraint’s grandparents took over the farm. Geraint is the third generation to farm here in partnership with his father Bryn and brother Hugh. They also have a very successful caravan park business where his sisters Sian and Bethan are active partners.
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FUW Meirionnydd County Executive Officer Huw Jones welcomes Liz Saville Roberts MP to the FUW stand at the International Sheep Dog Trials[/caption]
Geraint and and his wife Annest married in 1992 and have two daughters, Lowri and Catrin who play an important and active part in the business on both the farming and tourism side. Annest, Catrin and Lowri also run the bar and restaurant at the Woodlands/Bronffynnon site which is approximately 3 miles from Sandilands.
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Talking Shop - FUW Vice President Richard Vaughan (l) with BWMB Producer Communications Manager Gareth Jones[/caption]
FUW Meirionnydd County Executive Officer Huw Jones said: “The fields where the trials were held were in a truly fascinating location, with outstanding views over the Dysynni valley, and perfect for an event such as this.
“I would like to thank all of the Union staff and officials who have been at hand over the three days to help in manning the stand and of course their kind assistance in setting up.
“Last but not least, I would like to congratulate the Wales team on their excellent achievements, the competition was truly intense and a wonderful display of how well dog and handlers work together.”