Cracking the Flags at Great Yorkshire Show
The sun had his hat on and Yorkshire was positively cracking the flags at this year’s Great Yorkshire Show – with blue skies, ice creams and a buzz of excitement in the air. One of the hottest shows on record. It was a scorcher in more ways than one for British Wool as we celebrated the very best of wool, from fleece to fashion.
Inside the British Wool Tent: From Farm to Finished Product
Our tent at the Great Yorkshire Show was a true celebration of homegrown talent and traceable wool. We proudly hosted a collection of Yorkshire-based brands, all using genuine British wool to craft beautiful, sustainable products – from knitwear and homewares to gifts and skincare.
Visitors could browse, buy and chat directly with the makers, discovering the incredible journey of wool from sheep to shelf.
For our farmers, the tent offered something equally important: the chance to see exactly where their wool ends up. It was a powerful reminder of the value of British wool, not just as a raw material, but as a story of craftsmanship, sustainability, and community.
Shearing in the Spotlight
The British Wool Shearing Stage was packed with spectators throughout the week. Watching some of the country’s top shearers battle it out for top honours. The searing heat didn’t slow them down, with incredible skill and stamina on display. The Great Yorkshire Show Shearing Championships crowned its champions across multiple categories. With the crowd especially enjoying the high-energy Open Final on the Wednesday.
A big congratulations to all the winners. These events continue to highlight not just the athleticism and precision of shearing, but its importance for animal welfare and the wool industry.
Little Beau Sheep on “Today at Great Yorkshire Show”
It was a proud moment for British wool as Little Beau Sheep was featured on Channel 5’s Today at the Great Yorkshire Show. Filmed on the British Wool stand and interviewed by Julia Bradbury. The segment celebrated Yorkshire makers who craft with passion and purpose.
Showcasing their popular wool dryer balls and felted soaps, Little Beau Sheep highlighted the innovative and eco-friendly side of British wool in everyday life.
Missed the episode? You can catch up and watch the full feature on Channel 5’s streaming platform – WATCH HERE
Fleece Competition Results
The Fleece Tent once again showcased the best quality wool from across the region, judged on cleanliness, fibre quality and preparation. Congratulations to all the entrants – the standard was sky-high.
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Champion Fleece – K A Liddle from Otley with a Masham fleece
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Reserve Champion – S J McBurney from York with a Shetland (Moorit)
A huge thank you to all the farmers who entered and continue to take such pride in presenting their fleeces. Your care and commitment are what make British wool a truly premium fibre.
Wool on the Hoof
The Wool on the Hoof competition judged by Ian Brooksbank. The fleeces are judged and inspected on the animal showing how much breed, condition and presentation matter when it comes to the value of a fleece. This year, the heat didn’t faze the exhibitors or their sheep!
The competition continues to be a fantastic way of showcasing the visual qualities and fleece potential of different British sheep breeds.
Fashion Takes Centre Stage
This year’s Fashion Show had a refresh, with a new format. A stylish celebration of British wool, it featured stunning pieces from Glencroft and Oubas. Two British brands known for their craftsmanship, traceability, and commitment to natural fibres.
The fashion show was a crowd-puller, with models wearing timeless and contemporary knitwear, all made using 100% British wool. It was a moment of pride to see our homegrown fibre on the catwalk, not just as clothing, but as a lifestyle choice.
In all, it was a brilliant few days of celebrating British sheep farming, wool and community in the Yorkshire sunshine. Thank you to everyone who came by the British Wool stand – we’re already looking forward to next year!
