Sunshine pulls the crowds at 69th Dunvegan Show

UNEXPECTED summer sunshine on Saturday had visitors flocking to the 69th Dunvegan Show.

The event was once again organised by members of Duirinish and Bracadale Agricultural Association who reported gate entries for 2017 were up on previous years and a record number of show entries, particularly in the sheep section.

In the livestock section, judge Margaret MacDonald had the unenviable task of choosing the Champion of Champions. The coveted title, the Margaret Mackinnon Memorial Cup, was won by Angus Beaton of Gesto with a two crop Cheviot ewe. Reserve overall was handed to Robert MacDonald, of Uiginish, for his Charolais cross stot calf.

Competitions in home produce, horticulture, handicrafts, fleeces and children’s sections were judged throughout the event with trophies and prizes handed out at the end of the day in the show tent.

The popular dog show proved a hit with the crowds with top dog of the year Tan, a Kelpie cross, handled by Lewis MacLe- od of Dunvegan. Among other attractions were the Drakes of Hazard, a formidable sheepdog and duck display team, and the wee Highland Dancers who charmed their audiences in the sunshine.

There was also a lively drumming display and a rousing skirl of the pipes with Isle of Skye Youth Pipe Band. Pony rides, a tug of war competition, refreshment and information stalls, ice- cream and popcorn all helped to make the day a huge success for organisers, visitors and exhibitors.

Show chairman Iain Beaton said: ‘The Dunvegan show once again proved popular with locals and tourists.

‘Numbers through the gate were up on recent years as show-goers enjoyed unexpected fine weather. The quantity and quality of entries across all sections was outstanding, with the sheep section, in particular, enjoying a record number of entries.

‘Mark Wylie’s Drakes of Hazard demonstration as well as many other attractions provided excellent entertainment throughout the day.’

For full results, please visit www.lochabertimes.co.uk

Iain Beaton receives the Champion of Champions rosette from judge Margaret MacDonald. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Trish Brunton on holiday from Fife received a first rosette in the dog show for her toy poodles Scooter and Sproutie. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Photograph: Sara Bain. Skye Youth Pipe Band entertain the crowds.

A sheepshearer shows off his skills in the livestock pens. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Photograph: Sara Bain. Above: The show was a hit with families.

Drummers enjoying the day. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Best puppy in the dog show went to Skye the Border Collie pup. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Photograph: Sara Bain. Wee Highland dancers watch the display.

Judging in the Cheviot section. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Right: Fleeces for sale in the Wool Tent. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Paddy Wildup gives a spinning demonstration. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Tiny Highland dancers wait for the music to start. Photograph: Sara Bain.

Families enjoyed the unexpected good spell of weather. Photograph: Sara Bain.

One boy and his dog. Photograph: Sara Bain.