Hilary Shenton

Hilary Shenton has developed a thriving business from an initial fascination with alpacas, which has now become her passion. She is a qualified Judge for the British Alpaca Society and can often be seen judging at county shows and she is involved in organizing shows and classes. In addition to the many awards her alpacas have won, she was awarded the title of ‘Best Small Exporter’ in the 2004 Midlands UK Trade and Investment Awards for Export.

Her interest in alpacas began in 1997, when a friend introduced her to these endearing creatures. It was an opportune introduction, as Hilary was looking for a complete lifestyle change. She had been running her own highly successful recruitment company in London for 25 years, but the countryside beckoned and she fell in love with alpacas. But it is typical of Hilary’s approach to life that it was over a year later before she bought her first alpacas. During that year she did as much research as possible, learning about alpacas, their welfare and care as well as the more practical aspects of whether she could create a viable business.

A move to Herefordshire in 2000 with her partner John meant that Hilary could now expand her herd. Her wish to share her knowledge and pass on her love of alpacas, led to the introduction of one-day courses for would-be alpaca owners. These are now held monthly throughout the year, and as well as information on the care and management of the animals, the day also includes much information on how to develop a herd of alpacas as a business, and ways in which the alpaca fibre can be used and marketed – in short a very valuable introduction to the business for prospective owners.

In an effort to widen still further her understanding of alpacas, she recently spent three weeks living in the altiplano, or high plains, of Peru studying breeding methods and seeing some of the best animals in the country. Hilary is now an accredited breeder with the international Alpaca Breeders Fibre School in Peru.

Her skills in business management and marketing, as well as her deep belief in, and knowledge of, the very best standards of animal welfare, have created a very successful and profitable business. She has worked hard to develop a quality breeding programme, and constantly strives to improve her methods and practices. As a result, Hilary has now become one of the most respected breeders in the west. She is also a very likeable and approachable lady and you can be assured of a very warm welcome whenever you contact her.