Show participants no strangers to adversity

Shows are always at the mercy of the weather and what world events have in store. We take a look at 2019’s season

The Fife Show didn’t fare too well weather-wise but despite the constant May drizzle, exhibitors and spectators were out in force to support the event staged on the outskirts of Cupar.

With farmers well up to date with their work following the mild winter and spring, there was also an increased entry of cattle and sheep on show.

Meanwhile, the sun was out for the

Central and West Fife Show on June 1. Youngsters were enthralled by the tent full of baby animals, which included lambs, foals, chicks and kids, while more unusual creatures were on show thanks to Zoolab’s display of spiders, snakes and creepy crawlies.

Farm workers added to the entertainment with demonstrations of sheep shearing, horseshoeing and milking a cow.

The day-long event at Hilton Farm near Kelty also saw young farmers compete in the regional tug o’ war qualifier for the Royal Highland Show.

July wasn’t so kind to the Braco Show and constant downpours proved a serious challenge to sheep, cattle, horse and goat breeders.

The grand parade was cancelled, but the best of the day’s livestock battled it out for the champion of champions award in torrential rain.

Show chairman Jim Prentice was disappointed with a third wet show in succession, but the committee had prepared well with new drainage on the traditional setting of Lodge Park on the edge of the village.

In August, thousands flocked to the 157th annual Perth Show.

Celebrity chef Phil Vickery was among the star attractions at Scotland’s only city centre farming show. He was backed by a trio of talented local chefs: Praveen Kumar of Perth’s Tabla, Kate Thornhill from Perthshire Preserves and Jonathan Greer of the Old Manse of Blair.

Over the decades Perth Show has evolved into one of the UK’s leading agricultural events, with a packed programme of farming fun and good food.

Around 320 horses of every breed – from working hunters to veterans – vied to catch the judges’ eyes across 71 classes. More than 1,200 head of horses, donkeys, goats, cattle and sheep competed in around 360 classes.

Pictures: Wullie Marr and Kenny Smith. Clockwise from far left: Simmental bull Lisglass Goldstart, with Gordon Clark of Broombrae Farm, Auchtermuchty, was interbreed beef champion at last year’s Fife Show; Laura Crooks from Luncarty with Elvis Inspiration, champion decorated harness at last year’s Perth Show; lambs take shelter from the rain during judging at Braco Show; Reserve Horse Champion Eynhallow Linny at last year’s Perth Show; Andrew Wilson can’t hide his delight after winning champion of champions with his dairy cow at last year’s West Fife Show.