Kirkby Stephen Branch of the Mule Sheep Association was set up in 1981 and currently has over 90 active members, producing around 20,000 mule ewe lambs annually. We are part of NEMSA (North of England Mule Sheep Association) and one of the larger branches in the North West, covering the Upper Eden Valley and adjoining Pennine Dales.
The North of England Mule is the UK’s most important commercial sheep. It is the result of a Swaledale ewe crossed with a Bluefaced Leicester ram. The Mule has the ability to adapt to any conditions from hill to lowland.
It’s clear that the North of England Mule is the no. 1 prime lamb producer in the UK. Our members are striving to maintain its profitability, facing the ever-changing demands of the industry.
We are both grateful and fortunate our members take such pride in their stock. This is the culmination of a year’s work, which begins again in earnest immediately following the sale season. Read more about the North of England Mule