The British Sheep Industry is experiencing times that were not thought possible a few years ago. These are challenging times indeed for the flock-master who has to face increased costs and lower profit margins. What can he do to protect his interests and face the future with hope?

The obvious answer is to look for a breed of sheep that will improve profit margins, reduce overheads and fit in with other farming enterprises. Ideally it should be prolific, easy to handle, hardy, versatile, able to breed at any time of the year and not reliant on a high level of additional nutrition.

If you are looking for a sheep that is adaptable to any climate or altitude, with a fleece that many breeds would like to aspire to, then this is your sheep. The sheep will provide a regular cash flow by producing lambs frequently, if you wish, three times in two years. It has an economically produced carcass sought after by the retailer and housewife, whose discerning taste is the ultimate challenge.

If you prefer cross breeding, choose a ewe or ram that will pass many of the above characteristics on to its first cross females, hence improving your profit margins on your existing stock.

If this is your aim look no further than the Dorset Horn and Poll Dorset Sheep. As the new Millennium gets under way so the Dorset Horn and Poll Dorset Sheep Breeders' Association goes from strength to strength towards new frontiers, promoting the ultimate breed in the twenty first century.