British Wool's Head Grader wins trophy for his support and knowledge

Head Grader Ian Brooksbank has recently been awarded the Frank Williams Trophy by the Cotswold Sheep Society for his contribution to the society
Head Grader Ian Brooksbank has recently been awarded the Frank Williams Trophy by the Cotswold Sheep Society for his contribution to the society

The Cotswold Sheep Society has awarded British Wool’s Head Grader for his support and knowledge in the wool industry.

As raw wool arrives at the British Wool depot in Bradford it is met by a team of skilled graders who assess and grade every last fleece.

Leading this team is Head Grader, Ian Brooksbank, who has been awarded the Frank Williams Trophy by the Cotswold Sheep Society for his contribution to the society.

The prestigious Frank Williams Trophy is presented annually, after nominations from Cotswold Sheep Society Members, to someone that has carried out outstanding work or assistance to the Society.

Ian was awarded this accolade because of the contribution he has made to the Society through educational talks, as well as regularly judging at shows and always providing helpful feedback.

The Cotswold Sheep Society was established in the 1890’s when it represented the owners of 22 different flocks. Nowadays, the Cotswold is classed as a rare breed, although its wool is still known as the ‘golden fleece’.

Prestigious award

Chairman of the Cotswold Sheep Society, and herself a past recipient of The Frank Williams Trophy, Davina Stanhope, commented: “The Cotswold Sheep Society is delighted to offer Ian this prestigious award in recognition of his ongoing and invaluable service to the industry.

“Ian has judged for us on a number of occasions and has also given some fascinating talks to the society members.

“Despite having a young family, he gives his time freely and always goes the extra mile to encourage our members, and ensures that he provides useful feedback when judging.

“I found it absolutely fascinating to watch Ian as he judged our ‘Wool on the Hoof’ competition at the Society Show last July. The concentration and level at which he considers the fleeces has to be seen to be believed.”