Anticipation grows as industry gears up for virtual celebration

“In these unprecedented times we have to consider what we can do within the confines of social distancing and I am delighted that RHASS is supporting the DC Thomson virtual show,” she said.

“Excellent judges have been lined up to take part and I really hope many of the breeders who had hoped to parade in the show rings this summer will get behind the camera and feature on the small screen in this virtual show.”

Over four days every June the Royal Highland Show is a highlight of the rural events calendar with more than 900 competitions, tempting arrays of machinery and food, music, entertainment, and the pinnacle for farmers and city dwellers alike is the grand parade of preened-to-perfection livestock.

The online show is sponsored by EQ Accountants and as well as livestock and vintage machinery classes there is a dog show, virtual trade stands, machinery, food and drink, and a beer tent.

All that’s required to enter any of the livestock classes is a video to be taken of an animal according to the instructions set out on the website, then uploaded to YouTube. The website also has profiles of the judges and a clear outline of what they’re looking for in their champions.

The show is open for entries until June 19 and the £5 entry fee for each animal will be donated to the Royal Highland Education Trust which works to teach children about food and farming.

Go to scottishagriculturalshow.co.uk for all the details.

Picture: Kenny Smith. Livestock will be shown via video with judges lined up to announce their champions.