An award-winning Ilkley butcher will journey to New Zealand to take part in a three-nations competition.

David Lishman, owner of Lishman’s, will head a five-strong team of British butchers on a study of the country, which will see them compete against Kiwis and Aussies.

During the five-day Central Otago Study Tour, which begins on March 5, they will take part in tours and workshops to learn more about the butchery trade down under.

Practical sessions will be organised by Beef & Lamb New Zealand Inc and the British visitors will also be guest judges for the Golden Lamb Awards, otherwise known as “The Glammies” This competition aims to find New Zealand’s most tender and tasty lamb.

The study tour will end on the lakefront of Wanaka, in the South Island, where the first ever Butchery Tri Nations competition took place.

In true Tri Nations style, the GB team will go up against their Kiwi and Aussie peers to see which nation has the finest butchery skills. Each team will create a butchered display of lamb, beef and pork which will be judged by independent experts.

Mr Lishman said: “When Meat Retail New Zealand approached us to take part we had no hesitation in accepting as it presents a great opportunity for us to learn new skills and establish links with a nation prized for its farming heritage. Our hosts have arranged a fascinating tour, introducing us to some of the country’s finest butchers, farmers and chefs along the way.”