World knows Scottish beef is a breed apart
IF memory serves it was when the Euro ’96 competition was on the go in England that it seemed difficult to escape from the “Football’s coming home” song and slogan, the idea being that, despite some pretty mediocre performances in international competitions, Britain still invented the game.
And there’s a bit of a similar feel in the farming world just now as a big international celebration of what is probably the most famous breed of cattle the world over is taking place in Scotland.
For, with the clue being in the name, where else could that jet-black breed which is recognised the world over for the quality of its meat, have been developed?
We’re talking about the Aberdeen-Angus here, an animal long recognised as native to Scotland’s grasslands and pastures, which has gained a reputation which has seen it become a favourite on ranches, stockyards, cattle stations, prairies and fields in pretty much every corner of the globe.
So, given its popularity and its roots here it may be a surprise that this is the first time in 40 years the World Angus Forum – a big international celebration of the breed which takes place every four years – has been held in this country.
But it shouldn’t have been that long. The event had been set to come to the UK back in 2001 – but due to the brutalities which the country’s livestock industry was suffering due to the foot-and-mouth outbreak that year, it had to be cancelled.
So it’ll be a doubly-big welcome which the 300-plus delegates who have made their way to the UK and Ireland will receive during the course of the 17-day event.
And representatives from as far afield as Africa, North and South America, Australia, New Zealand and all over Europe will come to share in their stories and experiences with the Aberdeen-Angus breed for which they all share a passion.
After several days touring the country and visiting some of the big herds, and three days watching the showring and socialising at the Highland Show, a big conference on the breed, its role and its future will take place today and tomorrow – making sure the Aberdeen-Angus maintains its reputation for producing the very best roasts, steaks and mince in the world.
And after a few more days of more farm visits, tours, civic receptions and organised events there’s due to be a big slap-up meal to round off the event at the home of one of the best-known herds, at Netherton.
Wonder what’ll be on the menu?