A HUSBAND-AND-WIFE farming team are delighted with a double celebration after their herd was declared free of TB and given an award – all within 24 hours.

Linda and Roger Edwards, are from Little Farm in Bettisfield, on the outskirts of Whitchurch, and their herd was diagnosed with the disease early in 2017.

However, on March 22, the couple were told there was no longer any TB on their farm and later attended an awards presentation – despite their tiredness and misgivings – only to clear the board.

"We have a lovely story to tell you about our treasured herd of dairy cows," said Linda.

"Last Thursday, finally after 13 months we were set free from TB.

"Roger and I felt as if the prison doors had been opened for us. Both of us were quite exhausted by it all.

"That very same evening we were persuaded to attend an awards presentation for the Shropshire National Milk Records Herd competition we had entered last year. This is the only competition we enter, as they do involve extra work, added to our heavy work load already.

"But we were delighted to find out our Willenhall herd of treasured cows swept the board.

"We won Best Large Herd, Best Herd On Inspection, Progeny Group, Family of cows, Best heifer and finally to finish Champion Herd. We also got second for two 50 ton cows.

"For two totally worn out dairy farmers, this lifted our already happy spirits as we were free from TB, to an altogether different level. We are still coming to terms winning so many times.

"Also another dairy farmer, who has purchased dairy heifers from us, won an award. His winner also, originated from our herd.

"All I can say is, that was one hell of a day, to treasure in our farming hearts forever."

The competition was held at the Fox & Hounds pub in Shawbury. For more about the NMR, head to their website at www.nmr.co.uk