Alpaca championships

Alpaca enthusiasts from across Scotland and the north of England will showcase their stock at the Scottish Alpaca Championships at Lanark mart on Saturday April 28.

The animals, which hail from the Andes, will be judged by one of the UK’s top alpaca experts, Mary Jo Smith.

More than 130 animals from 28 exhibitors are entered for the event and judging will cover males and females in the Suri and Huacaya breeds, with four age classes for each colour. An overall best in show prize will be awarded.

Show organiser Stuart Ramsay, of Velvethall Alpacas, said: “Alpacas are wonderful animals and people will be surprised at how popular they are in Scotland. The interest is primarily in their fleece which is very soft, hypoallergenic and similar to cashmere.

“As well as watching the judging, visitors can speak with the alpaca owners, see some of the animals up close and meet hand spinners who use the wool.”

Willie McCulloch, event manager at Lawrie & Symington, said: “We’re sure there will be a lot of interest in the alpaca championships. Our facilities are well suited to cater for events like this; we are able to accommodate a large number of people while showing animals in an environment where they are happy and comfortable.”

Doors open at 8.30am with judging from 9am.

Visitors can see alpacas up close.