Challenges faced by sheep farmers in Cumbria and Canada have brought together two academics who are looking to find solutions to their problems.

Dr Lois Mansfield, the University of Cumbria’s principal lecturer in outdoor studies, and Professor Nicole Klenk, of the University of Toronto, share a concern for the welfare of sheep farmers on their separate continents.

It is hoped that this connection could be the start of an international collaboration after Prof Klenk recently visited the UK.

“We’re hopeful this visit will mark the start of a long term relationship, to enable us to build on the cultural heritage of both countries which will help both thrive,” said Dr Mansfield.

Meanwhile it is hoped that closer ties with Canadian producers could help mitigate the challenges which Brexit now pose for sheep farmers in the UK.

Dr Mansfield has written about the plight of upland farmers, and in 2009 wrote a book on the subject 'The Cumbrian hill sheep initiative', which is highly regarded internationally.

It focused on the challenges facing Cumbrian sheep farmers and possible solutions as the economics of the industry continued to be felt.

In Canada social scientist Professor Klenk has been undertaking similar work for the past 12 months.

“With support from the government I’ve spent 12 months interviewing sheep farmers in Ontario who are facing real challenges to find a market for their wool, and came across Lois when researching the subject,” Professor Klenk explained.

While on a visit to the UK, she met Dr Mansfield who has arranged a week-long research visit to experience aspects of the Cumbrian wool industry.

In a twist of fate, Dr Mansfield also has experience of living and working in Ontario.

“In 1990 I completed an MA in rural studies at the University of Guelph, so when Nicole got in touch it was an ideal opportunity to establish a link and share experiences,” she said.

In Canada fibre sheds have grown in popularity.

The form of co-op has brought farmers and manufacturers together to discuss ways of making use of wool for mutual benefit.

Prof Klenk said: “The UK is at the cutting edge when it comes to diversification which is an area where Canada could learn."