Yesterday, champion shearer 32-year-old Matt Smith conquered the Nine Hour Ewe World Shearing Record.  Matt set this new world record tally by shearing 731 ewes in nine hours, taking an average of 44 seconds to shear each sheep.

Matt began shearing at 5am for two hours, followed by four one-and-three-quarter runs, with half hour breaks in between. It took place at Matt’s home farm in St Clether, where he was surrounded by the support of friends and family, as well as sheep producers and fellow shearers from all over the world.

 Matt said: ’I am chuffed to bits to have set a new world record.  It has not been easy getting here, but all the hard work and preparation has paid off.  It’s been a long-time ambition of mine, and this is proof, that if you’re willing to put your body on the line, you can achieve your goals.’

The event also supported a nearby charity, St Austell-based Children’s Hospice, Little Harbour.