About the British Coloured Sheep Breeders Association

The origins of the Association

The Association was formed in 1985 by a group of enthusiastic and dedicated breeders of coloured sheep.  We hoped to raise the profile of coloured sheep in a world where commercial flock masters breed only white sheep.

The Association now

Members of the Association now include breeders of naturally coloured sheep and users of the wool.  We provide publicity, help and support and forge links between members to encourage their enterprises.  By bringing together both breeders and users we can promote

• the production of high quality coloured fleece
• its appeal to a market that is increasingly interested in natural, sustainable products.

We hold meetings and workshops and also take promotional stands to shows and other events.  These illustrate the uses for coloured sheep and wool.  We also encourage show classes for coloured sheep and fleeces, and award special rosettes.

The growing interest in coloured sheep

There is a growing interest in coloured sheep, particularly the fleece and wool.  They are totally natural resources and have many uses in craftwork.  The sheep are also valuable; for meat, and, increasingly, for dairy products.  The interest in coloured sheep has produced an awareness of their potential for small farm businesses.

Coloured sheep can increase the income of a smallholding and we aim to demonstrate this with our stand.  The income can come from the sale of

• the sheep
• attractive coloured fleeces and skins,
• finished garments made from coloured wool.

We welcome all coloured sheep

As we are mainly interested in the colour and texture of the wool, we welcome all coloured sheep, including

• pure bred sheep
• cross-bred varieties
• imports such as Gotland, Icelandic, and Blue Texel.