Kilpatrick calf is crowned champion

Deborah Robertson presents the overhead champion trophy to Neil Henderson of Kilpatrick Farm, who won with his three-month-old Limousin cross calf being held by Kirstie Barton at the 180th Arran Farmers’ Society Show. Tracy Warwick took the reserve champion prize with her horse Grantstown Unique.

The Arran Farmers’ Show may be 180 years old but this year it proved why it is as popular as ever.

Entries in both cattle and sheep classes were up this year, although, unfortunately, in a sign of the times, and probably for the first time in the show’s long history, there were no dairy cattle on show.

The rain tried to spoil the party in the morning, but unlike washout Wednesday last year the weather dried up for a time and the sun tried to come out – but the rain returned at lunchtime, leading to the presentation of prizes being held outside the secretary’s tent.

A steady stream of visitors poured into the field all day and appeared to stay a while and enjoy the many attractions in the showground, and the food stalls did a roaring trade at lunchtime.

Overhead champion

Star of the day was the three-month-old Limousin cross calf of Neil Henderson of Kilpatrick Farm who took the overhead champion prize, with runner-up Tracy Warwick on her horse Grantstown Unique.

During the day, Scotland’s top equestrian display team performed twice in the main ring, where the Arran Pipe Band also entertained.

The vintage tractor parade was also able to go ahead this year, as was the Young Farmers’ bale racing demonstration, but the Highland dancing display had to be cancelled because of health and safety fears.

The dog show, as always, attracted a healthy entry and the best in show was Karen McGugan with her dog Haley from Culzean.

In his speech before the prizegiving, Willie Robertson thanked everyone involved with the society for their hard work in making the show a success.

He also introduced the new society chairman George Tod, who takes over from Lady Jean Fforde who has retired after being a great supporter for many years.

See next week’s Banner for full results.

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01_B32show22 Above: Cameron McNeish was named best young handler with Limousin cross calf Pop.

01_B32show05 Left: Andrew Currie, seven, with a calf from Belleview.

01_B32show38 Kirsty McWillliam and her team from Riders of the Storm performed daring equestrian stunts during their show.

01_B32show25 Reserve beef champion Crackle with Pop from South Feroline.

01_B32show24 Beth McCarthy who won pet lamb class, taking over from her brother Ben who won it last year.