Well known Semex UK representative for Wiltshire, Berkshire, and Gloucestershire John Stratton has been presented with a long service award for 30 years of continual and loyal service to the company. During that time he estimates he will more than likely have made 20,000 or so farm visits!
His award was presented to him at the Royal Winter Fair in Canada by Paul Larmer, the chief executive of The Semex Alliance, and Gordon Miller the managing director of Semex UK.
"John has been a great ambassador for Semex, and is highly regarded and respected by dairy farmers in the UK and by his colleagues and peers all over the world," said Paul Larmer. Gordon Miller praised John's commitment, knowledge of his subject and desire to help farmers.
"John is one of the most genuine people you could ever meet. He loves the industry he serves, and the farmers within it, and has made a huge number of friends over the years. We thank him for being such a good representative for our company."
During his career he has worked in more than 13 counties, including Avon, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Somerset, Gwent, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Wiltshire.
"I've had the opportunity to travel with Semex including frequently to Canada as well as to the USA, Switzerland, Spain, Norway, Belgium, Netherlands, Ireland and South Africa. I've have seen a lot of different herds, and that has been one of the best parts of the job," says John. "It has been great to see the quality of herds improve as a result of the genetics that I have sold people."
The first bulls John sold back in 1981 were Diamond J Pride, Vic Ray Telstar Citation, and Bridon Astro Jet, which he initially bought as a customer before being persuaded to become a salesman. The best sires he has sold in his 30 years were Hanoverhill Starbuck and Braedale Goldwyn, plus their subsequent sons, he says.
"I've always believed in the Canadian system of breeding, and t he consistency it brings. I couldn't have worked for anyone else because I just believe in it so passionately, and that it is best for my customers. Breeding is for the long term, and not about going with what's fashionable in the short term."
Semex salutes and congrates John on his years of service and dedication to Semex.
