Love Lamb Week 2026 - Meet Rebecca Clarke, member of Seskinore YFC with a passion for sheep farming and agriculture
- 16 hours ago
- 5 min read
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role within agriculture?
My name is Rebecca Clarke, and I am from Beragh in County Tyrone. Having grown up on my family’s beef and sheep farm, I have been involved in farming from a young age and have developed a strong passion for agriculture. Throughout my life, I have remained actively involved in both my family farm and the wider agricultural industry. I am currently completing a degree in Sustainable Agriculture at Greenmount College and am undertaking my placement year with Fane Valley Feeds. Alongside my studies and responsibilities on the family farm, I have also gained valuable experience working part-time on a dairy farm and have occasionally worked on a pig farm. I am also actively involved in Seskinore Young Farmers Club which has been a great experience in the agriculture industry.
What inspired you to get involved in farming and agriculture?
Growing up on my family farm, I have always had a great love for animals and a strong interest in the health and wellbeing of our livestock. Being involved in their care from a young age has continued to inspire my interest and involvement in agriculture.
How did your farming journey begin, and has it always been something you wanted to purse?
My farming journey began at a young age, spending time on the farm alongside my mum and sister, working with our sheep. From these early experiences, agriculture has always been a major part of my life and has shaped both my interests and ambitions. I have always wanted to pursue a career in agriculture, as it is an industry I have grown up around and one that offers a wide range of opportunities. Farming is something I genuinely enjoy, and my passion for the industry continues to grow as I gain new experiences and develop my knowledge.
Can you tell us a bit about your sheep enterprise, what breeds do you keep and how many sheep do you have?
We lamb around 1400 ewes every year both as ewes and ewe lambs in march to April. All of our ewes are texel mules and are put to a beltex cross ram.
What do you enjoy most about working with sheep?
The aspect I enjoy most about working with sheep is the opportunity to make positive changes that improve both productivity and animal welfare. I find it particularly rewarding to explore new ideas and management practices that can enhance the performance of the flock, while also contributing to the continued development of the farm. With agriculture constantly evolving, I am passionate about adapting and developing alongside the industry to ensure the farm remains efficient and sustainable.
What is your favourite part of the sheep farming year, and why?
My favourite part of the sheep farming year is lambing time, as I enjoy the responsibility and reward of helping to bring new life onto our farm. It is one of the busiest yet most fulfilling times of the year. I particularly enjoy the teamwork involved during lambing, as it brings the whole family together to get through our busiest time of the year.
What does producing quality lamb mean to you?
We aim to produce high-quality, lean lambs with good fat cover, while ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare are maintained throughout their lives. Producing quality lamb is important not only for the success and efficiency of our own sheep enterprise, but also for maintaining the high standards associated with Northern Ireland’s meat industry.
What do you think makes Northern Ireland lamb special?
Northern Ireland lamb is recognised for its high quality and is produced under Farm Quality Assured standards, ensuring full traceability from farm to fork. These standards also promote high levels of animal welfare, giving consumers confidence in the quality, safety, and responsible production of Northern Ireland lamb.
Why do you think it is important for consumers to understand where their lamb comes from and the work that goes into producing it?
I believe it is important for consumers to understand where their lamb comes from and to recognise the significant amount of time, investment, and hard work that goes into producing high-quality lamb in Northern Ireland. Sheep farming is a demanding and time consuming industry, requiring commitment and dedication. Despite the vital role that farmers play in producing high quality lamb, I believe the work and effort involved in sheep farming does not receive the recognition it deserves.
What does being a woman working in agriculture mean to you?
I believe that being a woman working in agriculture has given me a particularly caring and attentive approach to livestock, which has strengthened my commitment to animal welfare and the long term sustainability of our farm. I am proud to be part of an industry that offers opportunities for everyone, and as a young woman working in agriculture, I hope to encourage and inspire more women to consider a career in the industry.
What do you think women bring to the agricultural industry?
I believe women have an important role to play in shaping the future of agriculture by bringing new perspectives, skills, and ideas to the sector. Women can contribute a caring and practical approach to farming, while demonstrating the hard work, dedication, and determination required to succeed. I also believe women can play a key role in improving efficiency and exploring new opportunities to diversify agricultural enterprises, helping to create a more sustainable future for the industry.
Have there been any women in agriculture who have inspired or influenced you?
My mum has been one of my greatest inspirations for pursuing a career in agriculture. Having also grown up involved in farming from a young age, she taught me the importance of caring for our animals and taking pride in the work we do on the farm. Her hard work, dedication, and commitment to agriculture have always been an inspiration to me and have played a significant role in shaping my own passion for the industry. She has shown me that with determination and dedication, women can make a valuable and lasting contribution to agriculture.
What advice would you give to a young woman who is considering a career in agriculture?
Forget about the stereotypes and get hands-on in the industry. Agriculture is a welcoming and rewarding sector that offers countless opportunities to those who are willing to put in the hard work, gain experience, and make the most of every opportunity. Get involved, be willing to learn, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
What is one thing you wish more people understood about farming?
Agriculture is not simply a job, it is a way of life. It is a rewarding industry built on hard work, passion, and a strong sense of community, where people support and look out for one another. Agriculture has the ability to shape lives for the better, providing meaningful opportunities and a strong connection to the land, animals, and the wider community.
