Test of discipline as youthful shepherds handle pressure
YOUNG HANDLERS were put to the test in front of the crowds in the sheep section, as the next generation of farmers demonstrated just how much discipline is required to keep their animals in check.
Some found the going tougher than others with 13-year-old April Skelton taking the overall champion title. The schoolgirl from Penrith has been showing since she was five and her experience showed in the ring with a calm and authoritative performance in a contest which is judged entirely on young people’s handling skills.
April’s mother Joanne Skelton said there is great value in young people taking part in showing. “I think they learn discipline, how to look after animals, they grow in confidence and make friends.”
George Fell, 13, of Ulverston, Cumbria came second overall, while Finley James, seven, and sporting a white rose on his overalls, was best junior handler.
The final of the Rare Breed Survival Trust’s national Young Shepherd of the Year contest was held at the show, with entrants parading only native rare breeds.
Amy Byford of Suffolk won the senior section with a Hampshire Down and Gabe Mather, of Preston, the junior section with a four-horned Manx Loaghtan.
In the senior sheep classes, Hannah Brown of Leyburn won the prestigious supreme pair of lambs title with two 42kg homebred Beltex which were champion lambs at the Great Yorkshire Show.