Renowned Northern Irish breeder to judge prestigious Mule Gimmer Lamb Class at Borderway Agri Expo

Graham Loughrey

Borderway Agri Expo has announced that one of Northern Ireland’s most respected livestock breeders, Graham Loughrey, will judge the hotly contested Mule Gimmer Lamb Class at this year’s event, set to take place on Friday 31st October 2025 at Borderway Mart in Carlisle.

Widely recognised as one of the UK’s premier autumn livestock events, Borderway Agri Expo showcases the very best in British sheep and beef breeding.

Each year, the event draws elite stock and top industry professionals from across the UK, offering both a competitive showground and an insight into the future of British agriculture.

Among the most anticipated classes of the day is the Mule Gimmer Lamb Class, renowned for its exceptional entries and the fierce competition it inspires. The winner of this category will be awarded the coveted NEMSA Perpetual Trophy, one of the most respected accolades in the sheep farming community.

This year’s judge, Graham Loughrey, hails from Limavady in County Londonderry, where he farms alongside his father and wife in the scenic Roe Valley.

The Loughrey family manages over 500 head of sheep, including Blackface ewes, Mules, and their pedigree Temain Bluefaced Leicester flock.

Graham is no stranger to success in the show ring, having earned numerous titles throughout his career. Earlier this year, he took home Overall Champion at the Balmoral Show with a shearling Bluefaced Leicester ram and has consistently triumphed in both the Mule Progeny and Bluefaced Leicester Progeny classes at the Antrim Progeny Show—the largest event of its kind in Northern Ireland.

In addition to his farming accomplishments, Graham works full-time as an auctioneer at Ballymena Livestock Market, one of the busiest marts in the country.

Although 2025 marks his first time attending Borderway Agri Expo, Graham brings with him significant judging experience, having officiated at several top-level shows and sales, including Peebles Show and the renowned Hawes Tup Sale.

Looking ahead to the Expo, Graham commented:

“It will be a challenging job choosing the winners from such an exceptional standard, but it’s a real honour to be asked to judge this class. I’ve heard so much about Borderway Agri Expo over the years and I’m thoroughly looking forward to being part of it and taking in the full experience.”

When asked what he will be looking for in the winning lambs, he added:

“Good, clean colours, very correct lambs with good skins and plenty of character.”

James Little, Pedigree Sales Manager and Auctioneer at Harrison & Hetherington, praised the appointment:

“Graham is widely respected on both sides of the Irish Sea. His experience and breeding credentials are second to none, and we are delighted to welcome him to Borderway this year.

“The Mule Gimmer Lamb Class is always one of the most competitive and talked-about sections of the day, and we’re confident Graham’s judgement will be both fair and well-received.”

Borderway Agri Expo is more than just a livestock show. It is a cornerstone of the UK’s agricultural events calendar, featuring hundreds of trade stands that highlight advancements in farming technology, genetics, equipment, environmental practices, and export opportunities. With its wide-ranging appeal, the event remains a must-attend for anyone involved in modern farming.

For further updates and information, visit www.borderwayagriexpo.uk or follow Borderway Agri Expo on Facebook and Instagram.