An experienced mid Wales shearer will be making a record-breaking attempt to shear sheep across nine hours later this month.

Meirion Evans from Machynlleth has been busy shearing in recent weeks and has spent months preparing himself both mentally and physically for his 9 Hour British Ewe record attempt in Machynlleth on 13 July.

Meirion, 25, works on the family beef and sheep farm keeping Welsh Black Cross Limousin cows and mainly Mule Cross Texel ewes with some Welsh Mountain and Speckled Hill.

He also has a local contract shearing business which keeps him busy over the summer months and travels to New Zealand over the winter.

Meirion said: “Shearing has already given me many opportunities including seven seasons working in New Zealand – this is a great way to improve and also to make new friends.”

On what motivated him to want to attempt the 9 Hour British Ewe Record, Meirion continued: “I have helped at several record attempts over the years, I enjoyed being a part of the team and supporting shearers to do their best in whatever record they were attempting. I also very much liked the atmosphere and wanted to attempt the record myself. “

Meirion added: “There are many within the industry I look up to and I remember from a young age watching videos of Stacey Te Huia from New Zealand shearing which was a big inspiration to me.”

Gareth Jones, Head of Member Engagement, British Wool said: “Record attempts are an excellent opportunity to promote the quality of British wool to wider audiences and showcase the highly skilled individuals driving the industry forward.

“As a member organisation, British Wool is committed to supporting champions as representatives and ambassadors. We’re delighted to be supporting Meirion to help him achieve his goals and wish him the very best of luck.”

DPJ Foundation will be the record attempts nominated charity with fundraising taking place during the day.

The record will take place at Hendreseifion, Machynlleth, SY20 8QQ.

Meirion's record attempt

Timetable for the challenge

The record attempt will start at 5am and end at 5pm with the following timetable:

5am – 7am: Shearing

7am – 8am: Break

8am – 9.45am: Shearing

9.45am – 10.15am: Break

10.15am – 12noon: Shearing

12noon – 1pm: Break

1pm – 2.45pm: Shearing

2.45pm – 3.15pm: Break

3.15am – 5pm: Shearing

There will be a bar and entertainment during the evening.