There’s a clear appetite from farmers for exhibiting their top animals and networking with their peers, according to the organisers of the Royal Bath & West Show, taking place from the 1st to the 3rd of June at Shepton Mallet.
“The sheep classes have been especially notable with over 1,500 entries – a record number for the show – offering a high quality, diverse field of competitors,” said Naomi Guiver, competitions executive.
Experienced and new competitors alike are getting ready to exhibit at the event. The Rochford family, based in Somerset, have a long history with the show and are looking forward to the livestock classes.
“Between us, we’ve got a nice little show team this year,” said Rhian Rochford, who is an experienced Black Welsh Mountain (BWM) breeder and owner of ‘Cowboy’ – the top BWM ram in the country last year. “I’m entering two BWM shearling rams, two ewes, two shearling ewes and a few lamb classes as well, and all my entries are out of Cowboy, so fingers crossed.”
Both of Rhian’s children are also competing in the event. William, 11, has his own pedigree Ryeland flock. “I started my flock a few years ago and began showing at quite a young age after joining young handlers. We attended the show last year and I came second in the young handler’s class. It is definitely my favourite show.”
His sister, Elise, 8, is already an experienced handler with her own flock, including a few BWMs and two Valais Blacknoses. “Janet is my favourite sheep, she’s one of the Blacknoses,” she said. “But I’ve won quite a lot of shows with the BWMs, especially ‘Camelot Dolly’, who won first place in her class at the Royal Bath and West Show last year.”
Experienced interbreed cattle judge Ms Cormack is looking forward to a great turnout this year. “The show always has a great variety of breeds and a good turnout in every class,” she said. “And with it being one of the first shows of the year, all the competitors are really happy to be out and about doing what they love.
“Showing is important; it’s our shop window, and it gives the public a chance to interact with farmers. But also, farming is a tough business and people need the positive experience of these shows to balance out the pressure, as well as to have a bit of social time with like-minded people.”
She added that fine margins will separate the animals if they make it as far as the interbreed judging. “I want to see a good head with a decent set of ears, which show the animal is alert. Then I need to see a good length of neck, and natural width over its shoulders, but not too heavy, as that can indicate issues with calving. Then we move to a nice balanced back with a bit of loin ideally, a neat tail setting, and a nice round hindquarters.
“And if an animal has the attributes to win, it all comes down to the handler. It’s a real skill to prepare and handle an animal correctly, which can make the difference between a placed animal and a supreme champion.”
This year’s event will also boast an improved Stockman’s Supper, with a hog roast and Brothers cider on offer for £2.50 a ticket, as well as live music, a magician and free ice cream for under 16s.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming exhibitors to the showground and wish them all the very best of luck in the ring,” said Ms Guiver. “And, of course, a happy time catching up with friends in the livestock lines and at the Stockman’s Supper.”
For more information and to book tickets go to www.bathandwest.com
