As we begin 2026, I am pleased to welcome members and supporters to the first edition of Hereford Happenings for the year, and to the first produced in this new style. This format marks a step forward in how we communicate, share updates, and keep members informed about what is happening across the Hereford world. It is intended to be clearer, more accessible, and more relevant, and I look forward to continuing this approach throughout the year with your ongoing feedback.
The year has started with real momentum. Activity began early, and one of the first highlights was a visit to the Stirling show and Sale in late January. It was extremely encouraging to see a strong turnout, particularly in a region that has traditionally been strong Angus and Shorthorn territory. The standard of cattle on show was excellent, and the overall quality and presentation reflected very positively on the breed. My thanks go to all exhibitors and to everyone involved in making the event such a success.
February then saw another important milestone with our first February sale for a number of years. I was delighted with the level of support shown, including both males and females. We saw some very encouraging trade, with females reaching five-figure prices and males selling strongly up to £8,500. A big thank you also goes to Halls for hosting and managing the sale so effectively, and congratulations to everyone who entered and sold stock.
Looking ahead, Hereford Happenings itself will be emailed six times a year, on an every-other-month basis. The aim is to provide regular, meaningful updates on what is happening across the society and the wider Hereford community. This publication is very much a two-way conversation, and we welcome feedback, ideas, and contributions as we continue to refine and improve how we share information.
One of the most significant developments to report is in the area of DNA testing. I am very pleased to confirm that we have signed a new three-year agreement with Weatherbys. This brings a major benefit for members, as the cost of DNA testing has been significantly reduced due to advancements in testing technology. All six of our genetic conditions are now included on a single chip, meaning only one sample is required for genomics, parentage verification, and genetic condition testing.
Learn more about Test Types here
The six conditions covered are delayed blindness (DB), mandibulofacial dysostosis (MD), hypertrichosis (HY), diluter (DL), idiopathic epilepsy (IE), maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), and the Poll gene (Poll). The base cost for DNA testing, including parentage, is now £30, with individual conditions available at £7 each. This makes comprehensive testing far more accessible and should help support informed breeding decisions across the membership. We anticipate further efficiencies as new systems are introduced later in the year.
In support of this, we are currently exploring new software systems designed to improve how data is entered, managed, and accessed. The goal is to make recording and reporting quicker, easier, and more accurate, while allowing better integration with existing farm management systems and electronic recording equipment. This system is being tested now, with the intention of a wider rollout later in the summer of 2026. It will also streamline registrations, transfers, DNA results, and billing processes, helping reduce costs and improve service for members.
Finally, I am delighted to welcome Jemma Naish, who joins us as our new Marketing Manager. Jemma will lead a refreshed approach to how we promote the breed, with a strong focus on reaching commercial farmers through a wider range of platforms and formats. The aim is to better communicate the benefits of Hereford genetics and to strengthen connections across the wider Hereford family to commercial breeders. To kick things off, Jemma and I will be hosting a 30-minute webinar on our marketing strategy on 10 March at 7pm, where she’ll share more about our plans and how members can get involved. Register to attend here.
As always, the team is here to help. Please do get in touch with any questions, ideas, or event opportunities, you can email us at hello@herefordcattle.org
I look forward to catching up with many of you at shows and sales over the coming months.
Seth.