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Welcome to
The home of The Cagedale Ryeland Flock.
The founder of the Flock Graham Morgan sadly passed away in January 2006 but his legacy is now continued by his son Robert Morgan with the assistance of his brother-in-law Robin Mence. The Cagedale Flock is the third oldest active Pedigree Ryeland flock in Britain and probably its largest with over 150 breeding ewes.
I hope it proves to be informative but if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact
us: Website updated July 2008 © Robin Mence 2008 |
Our final major of the season is the Royal Show, the UK's premier agricultural show. This year, despite the movement restrictions, there was a healthy Ryeland representation at the show, with 5 teams and a total of 24 sheep on show. Apart form ourselves there were fellow Herefordshire breeders William Laurie from Kington and Doreen Smillie from Ledbury. Alf and Gill Pink were there also, enjoying their best results with Ryelands at a major show. Lastly but not least, was Sue Kendrick of Droitwich who won the Championship with her Senior Ram. We also had a successful show recording our best ever results at the Royal with 5 firsts and the female championship. It was also good to see former breed secretary Ann Jones involved as steward with her husband Ken also in attendance. Richard and Margaret Wear veteran competitors were unable to attend this year due to bluetongue movement restrictions but nevertheless they made the journey and for once had a relaxing time spectating rather then preparing and showing their sheep. I hope they will be back next year but for once it was nice of them to give the rest of us a chance. Society President Ifan Lloyd was also in attendance and his dry wit always adds to any occasion. Finally the, post judging, food and refreshments were provided by William Laurie with just a 'little' help from his mother and father - Teresa and Ian.
A special word also for the judge Bob Webb who did an immaculate job. Bob is a veteran of the society and we reported on this website last year of his retirement from breeding. Bob is a true sheep man and a real gent and despite only having sight in one eye missed nothing. His knowledge and eye for a sheep is outstanding and he also took the time to explain his decisions to all competitors. However I appreciate that it easy to praise a judge or referee after a successful day! We have found all the judging we have encountered this year to be consistent and to a high standard and I cannot recall so little contention in the show ring during a season. (Pictured above top is Bobby with our Ewe lamb K13 who was first in her class and female champion. Above left is our Group of three which was awarded first place, Edward showing the crowd the silverware!) 
It gives the Morgan family great pleasure to be able to
share with you some
of the history of the Ryeland Sheep breed and its own Cagedale
Flock,
now in it's 47th year and still grazing and thriving in Herefordshire's beautiful Wye Valley.The flock resides at the aptly named Shepherds
Meadow, Eaton Bishop just a few miles west of Hereford. It was once the home of the famous 'Eaton' Herd and Flock of Hereford Cattle and Ryeland Sheep. It is a location of outstanding beauty with its rolling parkland running down to the banks of the River Wye. 
On this site we will keep you advised of all news pertaining to the flock including details of our show successes and of the continued growth of the flock. Also provided is information of sheep we are prepared to consider selling for those looking to expand or start their own flock.