With a record-breaking 82 entries at this year’s Balmoral Show, and Herefords dominating the cattle sections across all breeds, it was a memorable day for brothers Ryan and Russell Kelly, first-time Hereford exhibitors at the show, who took home the top honours with Somerville 1 Winnie.

Somerville 1 Winnie (P) AI ET, a September 2022-born cow with her February 2026-born bull calf at-foot, started the day by winning the strong cow and calf class with eight entries forward. She was tapped out as female champion later in the day before being crowned overall breed champion, with judge Anselm Fitzgerald commenting on how “flashy and easy fleshing” she is, and describing her as “a stand-out cow” that will bring much success for the Kelly family.

Sired by the renowned Normanton 1 Laertes, a bull with multiple interbreed titles to his name including the Royal Highland and Royal Welsh Shows, and out of Solpoll 1 Fashion T18, a daughter of Rempstone 1 Fashion E430 who won the junior female championship title at Balmoral in 2017 and was purchased from the Designer Genes sale by the McMordie family in 2016, Winnie has a strong pedigree behind her. She enjoyed multiple show successes as a two-year-old heifer across Northern Ireland in 2024, so is no stranger to the show ring.

Standing reserve to Winnie was overall male champion Carrowboy 1 Perfect, exhibited by MH Farms Ltd. Born in November 2022, “Perfect” is sired by Fabb 1 Northern Star, who is siring many champions and top AI sires within the breed, and his dam Woodviewpoll 1 Pippa is sired by Solpoll 1 Kentucky Kid, a Panmure 1 Henry son. Carrowboy 1 Perfect won the senior bull class before being tapped out as male champion and reserve breed champion.

There were big smiles all around the ring for Donald Beatty and his grandchildren when their 15-month-old bull Solpoll 1 Cherokee took the reserve male champion and overall junior champion honours, also winning the biggest bull class of the day with 13 bulls forward. Bought privately from Solpoll at the beginning of the year, Cherokee is sired by Rempstone 1 Worldwide, a bull purchased privately by the McMordies at 11 months old for £10,000, and his dam Shancorpoll 1 Oll1 Uakea was champion at Tullamore Show in 2022 and female champion at Balmoral Show 2023.

It was some day for this stand-out dam, as Shancorpoll 1 Oll1 Uakea  not only bred Cherokee but is also the mother to the reserve junior champion Solpoll 1 Eunice C23, breeding both junior champions. An end-of-March 2025-born heifer, winning the largest class of the day with a total of 19 heifers forward and a maternal sister to Cherokee, Eunice is sired by Solpoll 1 Dynamite, three-time Balmoral Show champion.

Solpoll breeding shone throughout the winners at this year’s show, and the McMordies had plenty of their own successes in the breed classes as well as the interbreed competitions. They came away with the reserve beef interbreed performance heifer champion and reserve female champion with Solpoll 1 Dainty C9. December 2024-born and another Rempstone 1 Worldwide daughter, Dainty C9 is no stranger to the shows and was reserve female champion at the NIHBA Calf Show at Dungannon in November 2025.

Solpoll bulls placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the bull born on or after 1 January 2025 class, the largest bull class of the day with 13 bulls forward. In second place behind Solpoll 1 Cherokee was Solpoll 1 Casino. Casino’s dam is Solpoll 1 Amber R5, a daughter of Gouldingpoll 1 Duchess 591, who was Miss World Champion of Europe 2016 and national champion at Tullamore Show as a first-calver with calf at foot in 2016. She has bred many notable females and bulls such as Coley 1 Vincent, joint bull of the year in 2023. Casino is sired by Solpoll 1 Ace, who went on to sell to Rempstone Herefords as a two-year-old stock bull and is in the top 1 per cent of the breed for 200, 400 and 600 day weights. Casino had won reserve overall and junior male champion at the NIHBA Calf Show held at Dungannon in November 2025.

Following behind Casino and then going on to be overall beef interbreed performance bull champion was January 2025-born Solpoll 1 Cowboy. Impressing interbreed judge Robin Irvine, Cowboy is a Fabb 1 Top Prize son whose maternal brother is Fabb 1 Northern Star and is out of Solpoll 1 Dainty P7.

Solitude 1 Helen B233, exhibited by Andrew McMordie, was the winner in the class of heifers born on or after 1 January 2024 and on or before 30 June 2024, in calf or with calf at foot. Another strong class of seven heifers forward, Helen is a March 2024-born Solpoll 1 Promoter daughter, from an embryo imported from Canada. Promoter is the sire of Solpoll 1 Trailblazer, joint bull of the year 2023, who sold for 10,000gns. Her dam Solpoll 1 Helen R484 is a Moeskaer Upgrade daughter.

Lusky 1 Cornelius, exhibited by John Gill, won the bull class born on or after 1 April 2024 and on or before 31 December 2024. A July 2024-born bull, Cornelius came out on top against four other entries. Being homebred, he is sired by Lusky 1 Van Dyke, a Peartree 1 Gordon son, and out of Lusky 1 Wanda.

The champion pair came from exhibitor Alan Shaw, Benburb Herefords, with his two Benburb 1 Alan heifers, Benburb 1 Beauty and Benburb 1 Alison 2nd. Beauty is a June 2024-born heifer and Alison 2nd a July 2024-born heifer.

Champion group of three came from the McMordie family with yearling bull Solpoll 1 Casino, Solpoll 1 Dainty C9 and Solpoll 1 Eunice C23.

The show marked a strong start to the 2026 season, and the Herefords on display were a real credit to the exhibitors. Congratulations to all of the breeders and stockmen on an outstanding showcase.

 

Results

 

Photo credit – Alfie Shaw, Agri Images

Images available to purchase

Learning, Laughter and Livestock: A UKHY Weekend to Remember

The day began full of promise as the sun rose over Place Barton Farm, home of Gerald and Amelia Wood, Ben, Jess and little Rex, proud owners of the Allwood Herefords herd. The cattle were ready for pampering and preparations were complete to welcome 27 young Hereford enthusiasts from across the country.

On arrival, boots were dipped, tea was poured and cake was enjoyed, and there was plenty of it!  At 10:30am the first workshops began, with attendees split into their groups.

The eight juniors kicked off the long-awaited rematch of the team challenge: girls versus boys. Each team was presented with a heifer and tasked with washing, drying and preparing the animal for the show ring. Judge Glen Pritchard was on hand to support, observe teamwork and assess their final presentation. The teams were then challenged to wash the heifers again, ensuring no products remained on the animals, a task that looked great fun, with water and talc flying everywhere.

The six seniors spent their morning with local vet Ben, discussing herd health planning, disease management and biosecurity. This highly interactive session encouraged discussion, with participants and vet challenging each other’s thinking. They then moved on to stock judging two classes of young bulls. Gayle Bersey from Liskeard encouraged them to consider the differences between commercial and pedigree traits, focusing on legs, feet and overall structural balance. It was a thought-provoking and engaging morning.

Meanwhile, 14 ‘Newbies’ learned clipping and grooming skills for the show ring. UKHY members and USA team representatives Will Awan and Ethan Brook led these sessions, with Will focusing on grooming and Ethan on clipping. Due to numbers, the group split to ensure everyone gained hands-on experience.

A delicious hog roast lunch, prepared by host Ben using locally produced pork, gave everyone time to relax, network and recharge. During lunch, attendees enjoyed a light-hearted competition to guess the weight of Dendor 1 Alabama.

 

The afternoon resumed with Glen leading a practical beef evaluation session using a live bull to demonstrate key points and explain the different meat cuts. Participants were able to handle the animal and put theory into practice. Seniors then remained with Glen to discuss the wider beef industry, while the remaining groups judged the young bulls. Impressively, only one person correctly placed both classes in line with the judge: Will Awan.

The day concluded with leading and handling sessions. The newbies took to the ring first, supported by the seniors as part of the teaching and communication element of the competition. The juniors then held their own competition, with results as follows:

• 1st: Mia S
• 2nd: Sid S
• 3rd: Eifion J
• 4th: Emmy E
• 5th: Harriet E

The seniors then delivered a masterclass in showmanship. Results were:

• 1st: Jorja SB
• 2nd: Ollie GS
• 3rd: Ciara F
• 4th: Archie R
• 5th: Ieuan M

The day was a fantastic success and a wonderful way to celebrate the 10-year anniversary workshop of UK Hereford Youth. The raffle raised £229, and sincere thanks go to everyone who donated prizes. Even the celebration cake was well received.

The celebrations continued into the evening in Totnes, where members enjoyed social time, strengthened friendships and built connections within the Hereford community.

Sundays herd walk

On Sunday, the group visited the Hollystone herd, kindly hosted by Philip and Chris Caunter, along with son Mike and wife Fran. Attendees enjoyed a herd walk among cows, calves and youngstock while learning about the farm’s breeding policies and management. Despite the weather, enthusiasm remained high and the visit concluded with homemade rolls, pizza, cake and plenty of tea while taking in the views of the South Devon countryside.

A huge thank you goes to both host families for welcoming so many people onto their farms and sharing their passion for the Hereford breed

 

Saturday results

Overall Junior of the Day – Mia S.

Overall Newbie of the Day – Jacob F.

Overall Senior of the Day – Ollie G.S and Jorja S.B

Best Overall Junior Handler – Mia S.

Best Overall Newbie Handlers – Lauren M. and Pheobe P.

Best Newcomer – Callan N.

Team Junior Competition – Girls (Mia S., Emmy E. and Harriet E.)

Guess the weight of the bull – Dexter N.

This spring marks 10 years of Hereford Youth, a decade in which hundreds of young people have taken part in workshops, stock judging, training and international opportunities through the Hereford Cattle Society.

Hereford Youth held its first workshop in April 2016, when nearly 30 young people travelled from across the UK, including Northern Ireland, to Normanton Herefords. That day set the tone for the programme: practical learning, shared experience and a commitment to developing the next generation of Hereford breeders and industry professionals.

Since then, young members have gone on to represent the breed and the UK on the national and international stage. Highlights have included participation in young handlers’ classes at Tullamore Show during a workshop visit to Ireland in 2018, and annual representation in the National Stock Judging competition at Three Counties Show. Many members have also secured young handler titles at shows across the country, building skills and confidence in the ring.

Internationally, teams of young Hereford breeders travelled to New Zealand in 2020 and the United States in 2025, representing the UK at successive World Hereford Conferences. Alongside this, Hereford Youth members have contributed to the British Cattle Breeders Club Conference and other industry events, with several individuals going on to be nominated for national awards in their own right.

The programme has also broken new ground socially. In 2022, Hereford Youth hosted the Society’s first charity ball, a black-tie event which brought supporters together from across the UK and Europe and raised £10,800 for good causes. Across the decade, workshops, farm walks, stockmanship training and social events have helped young people build networks, careers and lifelong friendships.

Reflecting on the milestone, Hereford Cattle Society General Manager, Seth Wareing said he was proud of what has been achieved and excited about the future. “Over the past ten years, Hereford Youth has helped young people gain skills, experience and confidence while flying the flag for the breed at home and overseas,” he said. “We are now looking forward to the next decade, continuing to invest inopportunity, leadership and practical learning for the next generation of Hereford breeders.”

The 10-year anniversary will be marked at the upcoming youth workshop on Friday 2 May at Allwood Herefords, by kind permission of Gerald Wood and family. The day will focus on hands-on stock judging, show preparation, teamwork and confidence building, welcoming young Hereford enthusiasts from across the UK.

To help make the anniversary event as rewarding as possible, Hereford Youth is still seeking raffle prizes and small awards for participants. Suitable items include vouchers or experiences, farm or breed-branded clothing, farming or livestock equipment, gifts, hampers or other practical items for young farmers.

Anyone wishing to support the event, or to discuss a potential prize donation, is invited to contact Emma Edwards at emma.edwards@herefordcattle.org

I’m delighted to introduce myself as the new Marketing Manager for the Hereford Cattle Society. I stepped into the role at the start of 2026 after more than a decade working in agricultural marketing, professional bodies and the wider livestock sector.

My career has taken me through a variety of marketing and communications roles across agriculture, including positions at AgriBriefing, Genus ABS and, most recently, The Institute for Agriculture & Horticulture (TIAH), where I led strategic campaigns, digital projects and industry event activity. I’ve also worked as a freelance marketing consultant, supporting organisations across the agricultural and livestock sectors with content, campaigns and digital strategy. I hold professional marketing qualifications from both the Chartered Institute of Marketing and the Digital Marketing Institute, reflecting my commitment to keeping my skills current and delivering best-practice, results-focused marketing.

I live in Cheshire with my long-suffering husband, two dogs and a rather opinionated cat. When I’m not working, you’ll most likely find me with a book in hand (anything from crime fiction to business titles), out on a countryside walk, at a rural show or visiting farms. I also love playing board games with friends and discovering new places to eat local, seasonal food – a farm shop loves to see me coming!

I genuinely love all things marketing – from shaping strategy and brand positioning to crafting social media content, email campaigns and stories that resonate with real farming life. I’m a passionate champion of British farming and have a deep admiration for the resilience, innovation and care shown by farmers and breeders across the country, particularly those investing in the Hereford breed.

A big part of my role is to listen, collaborate and make sure our marketing reflects the breadth and depth of our membership. We invite members to contribute ideas for future marketing initiatives – any suggestions or insights are welcome and can be submitted using the marketing ideas form. These ideas will be reviewed regularly for potential development into campaigns or projects.

I’m particularly keen to hear real farm stories – from commercial wins, show successes and breeding breakthroughs to the day-to-day realities of running a herd. I believe the most powerful way to showcase the benefits of the Hereford breed is through the voices of the farmers who work with them, sharing their first-hand, authentic experiences. I’m looking for contributions from every kind of system – from small pedigree herds to large commercial enterprises, beef-from-dairy and everything in between – so we can reflect the full breadth of how Herefords are working on farms up and down the country. Tell me about your farm story here!

To kick things off, I’ll be hosting a 30-minute webinar on our marketing strategy on 10 March at 7pm, where I’ll share more about our plans and how members can get involved. Register to attend here. 

In the meantime, I’d love to hear from you – whether you have feedback, ideas, or a story to tell –  please feel free to get in touch at marketing@herefordcattle.org or by using one of the forms above.

As part of the programme, the Society is planning a series of exclusive pre- and post-conference tours to give delegates the opportunity to experience UK Hereford herds, farming systems and rural life first-hand. Pre-conference tours are scheduled for 5–10 June 2028, with post-conference tours planned for 19–24 June 2028.​

Expressions of interest now open

The Society is now inviting expressions of interest from members, farms, estates and rural businesses who may be interested in hosting a visit as part of these tours. At this stage, organisers are simply looking to understand the range of potential hosts and visit ideas, with no commitment required from those submitting the form.​

We are keen to hear from all types of farms and businesses with stories to share — from long-established pedigree herds to progressive commercial systems, new entrants and family-run farms, or those that have taken a unique or innovative approach to breeding and management. Historical locations are also very welcome, including sites with heritage buildings, landmarks or even stately homes that help tell the wider story of British agriculture and rural life.

These visits will celebrate the diversity of the UK’s Hereford cattle, farming heritage, local culture and rural excellence, offering delegates a genuine insight into the people and places behind the breed.

How to get involved

Those interested in being considered as a potential host are invited to complete a short online Expression of Interest form here. 

If you would like to express your interest but would prefer not to complete the online form, please contact the Society office on  01432 272057 and a member of the team will be happy to take your details over the phone or by email.

Submissions are open until 30 April 2026, after which the Society will begin mapping out routes, themes and logistics for the pre- and post-conference tour programme.

For any questions about hosting or the tour plans, please contact the Society office at whc28@herefordcattle.org.

The 10^th Annual Designer Genes event took place on the 12^th and 13^th December 2025 at Shrewsbury Auction Centre, with genetics selling on Friday and live lots selling on Saturday. Both sales were organised and managed by Dowbiggin Marketing in partnership with Halls. Auctioneer was Jonny Dymond. The event was held in conjunction with the Hereford Cattle Breeders Association’s annual Christmas Calf Show.

Embryos topped at 560gns each for embryos consigned by G & A Redmayne, Ings Herefords, from their donor female Sky High 1 L’amour Lucy. Semen peaked at 580gns per straw for Panmure 1 Henry semen consigned by Vaughan Farms Ltd. The Friday sale of genetics grossed £23,850.75.

The Saturday Sale was topped by the lead-off lot Moralee 1 Big Time RK349 from Tom & Di Harrison, Moralee Herefords Northumberland. The reigning UK Polled Hereford Bull of the Year, he sold to SC & GL Hartwright, Spartan Herefords, Oxfordshire for a new breed record of 22,000gns (£23,100).

Females topped at 10,000gns (£10,500) for Pulham 1 Lucy 7^th from Phil & Laura Vincent, Pulham Herefords, Norfolk. She was sold to SJ & H Smith, Welshpool. 11 females averaged £5937.27.  

A pick of the 2025 calves from Steven & Lizzie Walker, Hoghton View Herefords, Lancashire sold for 5,500 (£5,775) to G & MC Shepherd, Moorside Polled Herefords, Lancashire & Josh Dowbiggin, Ghyll Beck Genetics.

13 total lots sold to gross £94,185 and average £7,245, a new European record for a Hereford sale average. Clearance for the Saturday sale was 94%.

Averages

• 1 bull sold for 22,000gns (£23,100)
• 1 pick of the 2025 calves sold for 5,500gns (£5,775)
• 11 females sold to average £5937.27
• 25 embryos averaged £486.36
• 100 straws of semen averaged £116.92

Totals

• Friday sale grossed £23,850.75
• Saturday sale grossed £94,185
• Total weekend gross was £118,035.75

Sale Team

Sale Management – Josh Dowbiggin (Dowbiggin Marketing)

Auctioneer – Jonny Dymond (Halls)

Saturday Sale

A record-breaking trade was met at the 10^th Annual Designer Genes Sale. 13 lots sold to a top price of 22,000gns and average £7,245, a new European record for a Hereford sale average. Clearance for the Saturday sale was 94%.

The Saturday Sale was topped by the lead-off lot Moralee 1 Big Time RK349 from Tom & Di Harrison, Moralee Herefords, Northumberland. The reigning UK Polled Hereford Bull of the Year sold to SC & GL Hartwright, Spartan Herefords, Oxfordshire for a new breed record of 22,000gns (23,100gns). Big Time RK349 was sired by former Champion of Europe and multiple interbreed winning Moralee 1 Rebel Kicks, and out of leading donor female Moralee 1 Kylie, who is also the dam of the 2024 Hereford Miss Europe female.

A pick of the 2025 calves from Steven & Lizzie Walker, Hoghton View Herefords was sold for 5,500gns (£5,775). The pick offered the successful buyer the opportunity to pick from any of the 2025 born calves at Hoghton View, including both bull and heifer calves. The pick was sold to G & MC Shepherd, Moorside Polled Herefords, Lancashire & Josh Dowbiggin, Ghyll Beck Genetics.

Females topped at 10,000gns (£10,500) for Pulham 1 Lucy 7^th from Phil & Laura Vincent, Pulham Herefords, Norfolk. Lucy 7^th was sired by £10,000 Solitude 1 Vantastic and out of a daughter of Appel 1 Kaboom. She was sold to SJ & H Smith, Welshpool.  

The second highest priced female was Sky High 1 Louis-Vuitton Lucy from Boomer & Millie Birch and family. This female was crowned Reserve Overall Junior Champion at the recent National Poll Show. She was knocked down for 7,500gns (£7,875) to A Baxter, Lancashire.

Two females sold for 7,000gns. 5-year-old cow Dendor 1 Ruby 38^th sold for 7,000gns to R Moore, Northumberland. She was herself a daughter of noted sire Dendor 1 Nairobi. Her March-born heifer calf sold for 3,800gns to Panmure Herefords Scotland, valuing the cow/calf pair at 10,800gns.

Also to reach the 7,000gns mark was February 2025-born heifer Grifford 1 True Beauty. This heifer calf was Reserve Female Champion at the 2025 English Winter Fair. Sired by Normanton 1 Laertes and out of the 10,000gns Greenyards 1 True Love, she was sold for 7,000gns to M J Sharlot, Warwickshire.

Other prices

• Lot 4 – Bosbury 1 Rosa B201 GT sold for 6,000gns to Vaughan Farms Ltd
• Lot 9 – Glenvale 1 Kylie 969 sold for 5,000gns to Jacob Agri Ltd
• Lot 8 – Auckvale 1 Pansy 2419C sold for 4,200gns to RL Morgan
• Lot 10 – Pulham Olive 9th sold for 4,100gns to GF Harrison
• Lot 5 – Bosbury 1 Margaret B203 GT sold for 3,800gns to RF & ZL Chilman
• Lot 13 – Fardre 1 Julia C396 sold for 3,800gns to A Baxter

Averages

• 1 bull sold for 22,000gns (£23,100)
• 1 pick of the 2025 calves sold for 5,500gns (£5,775)
• 11 females sold to average £5937.27

Friday Sale

The DGS On Ice Sale Volume IV took place on Friday evening with 36 genetic lots selling to buyers both in the room and online. The sale was hosted in conjunction with the HCBA’s annual Christmas dinner.

• 25 embryos sold to 560gns per embryo (Ings Herefords – Sky High 1 L’amour Lucy) averaged £486.36 per embryo
• 100 straws of semen topped at 580gns per straw (Kingsland Herefords – Panmure 1 Henry) and averaged £116.92 per straw
• Total sale gross for the genetics was £23,850.75

Top Embryo Prices

• 3 Female Sexed Sky High 1 L’amour Lucy x Sky High 1 Take-a-chance embryos from G & A Redmayne (Ings) sold for 560gns each to DG & HM Davies
• 2 Greenyards 1 Truelove x Normanton 1 Laertes embryos from Nick Griffin (Grifford) sold for 520gns each to H Davies
• 4 EU exportable embryos of various matings from T & D Harrison (Moralee) sold for 480gns each to Richard & Petra Strijker, The Netherlands.
• 10 embryos from Rempstone 1 Anna Mary D594 (consigned by Ellie Williams) sold to top at 460gns and average 450gns, selling to G & A Redmayne (Ings) sold and G Davies, Wales

Top Semen Prices

• 4 straws of Panmure 1 Henry sold for 580gns each
• 3 straws of Normanton 1 Laertes (stored in Ireland) sold for 340gns each
• 3 straws of Normanton 1 Laertes (stored in the UK) sold for 190gns each
• 2 packs of 5 straws of Moralee 1 RHS Prince sold for 110gns and 100gns per straw
• 2 packs of 5 straws of Grifford 1 Try sold for 100gns per straw
• 10 straws of Solpoll 1 Trailblazer sold for 100gns per straw
• 3 packs of 5 straws of The Ranch Remington R028 sold to average 85gns per straw
• 10 straws of Haven Basil averaged 75gns per straw
• 2 packs of 5 straws of Hoghton View 1 Jackaroo sold for 75gns and 70gns per straw
• 3 packs of 5 straw of Coley 1 Pilot averaged 45gns per straw

 

What a way to end the 2025 showing year at the Hereford Cattle Breeders Calf Show, held at Shrewsbury Livestock Auction Centre. Not only were numbers strong, but the quality of cattle on display truly shone through. To follow this with a record-breaking Designer Genes sale was the icing on the cake, some might even say it was a Christmas cracker of a day.

Proceedings began with the best pair of bull calves, owned by the exhibitor. Taking first place was the Baybridge herd of LG Gould, closely followed by the Beca herd exhibited by GJ Twose, a fitting start to a super Saturday.

Moving into the senior classes, the overall supreme championship was decided in a strong class of 11 September/October 2024-born bull calves. Taking the top spot was Normanton 1 Charlie Boy, exhibited by the Livesey family. This September 2024-born bull is no stranger to success, having already secured the overall male and senior male championships at Borderway Agri Expo earlier in the autumn. Judge Mr Arwel Owen, a beef supply chain manager for Genus, praised the strength and power of the class, which was clearly evident in the Normanton entries, with Normanton 1 Crumbie securing reserve senior champion. Both bulls are sired by Cleland 1 Nelson, with Charlie Boy out of Normanton 1 Grifola 10th and Crumbie out of Normanton 1 Fistulina 38th V479.

The reserve supreme championship went to a true star of the showring, Dendor 1 Lilac Wine 46th, exhibited by DE, ED & AL Jones. This flashy September 2024-born heifer has enjoyed an outstanding summer, including claiming overall junior champion at the National Poll Show, alongside numerous accolades alongside her dam, Lilac Wine 37th. Now winning in her own right, she is sired by Solpoll 1 Vanquish. This success capped an exceptional day for the Dendor herd, with four of their five exhibits making the final line-up.

Further success followed in the junior male championship, once again for the Dendor family, with Dendor 1 Cruzcampo taking the title. This stylish March 2025-born bull won his split class and impressed the judge with his length and head carriage. Cruzcampo is also sired by Solpoll 1 Vanquish and is out of Dendor 1 Echo 36th. Stablemate Dendor 1 Colorado won the April-born class and went on to secure reserve junior male champion. Sired by Hoghton View 1 Utah and out of Dendor 1 Greta 36th, this marked an outstanding achievement for the Powys-based herd.

In the senior female section, the reserve senior female championship went to another Dendor exhibit, Dendor 1 Jano 25th, shown in the September/October 2024 class. Born in September 2024, she is sired by Romany 1 Distiller A84 D53 and out of Dendor 1 Jano 21st. With numerous animals presented across the day, it was all hands-on deck for the Dendor team as they collected an impressive haul of awards.

The junior female section brought success for the Ludgate family’s Rempstone herd, with Rempstone 1 Luna P741 winning the January 2025-born class. Sired by Fisher 1 Prospect P464 and out of Rempstone 1 Luna D588, the judge described her as a strong, exceptional heifer. Further honours followed when Rempstone 1 Tessa A768 secured reserve junior female champion. This April-born heifer is sired by Auckvale 1 Avatar 2238A and out of the renowned Rempstone 1 Tessa P667 and was expertly presented by young stockman Joe Clark.

In his closing remarks, Mr Owen commented that it had been a privilege to judge such a high-quality show. He noted that the breed was clearly moving in the right direction, highlighting the impressive loins and rumps seen throughout the classes. He praised his overall champion for being correct behind the shoulder with a strong loin, while his reserve female, he felt, showed all the attributes of an excellent future cow.

The Young Handlers once again put on a superb display, with judge Tony Bradstock putting senior handlers Archie Roberts and Jorja Snook-Bevis through their paces, including swapping animals and removing show sticks. Archie narrowly took the overall title, with Jorja in reserve. Strong performances were also seen from intermediates Mia Shaw and Abbie Jackson-Carr, and juniors Henry Hawkins and Sid Shaw, with the judge commending all competitors for their professionalism and stockmanship.

To round off a memorable day, a new breed record was set in the Designer Genes sale, with the highest-priced bull ever sold under their banner. Tom and Di Harrison of the Moralee herd were delighted to see their favourite bull knocked down to SC & GL Hartwright of the Spartan herd for 22,000gns, a truly fitting finale to an outstanding day for the breed all round.

Full Results

Overall supreme and senior male champion – Normanton 1 Charlie Boy – TD & WT Livesey

Overall reserve supreme and senior female champion – Dendor 1 Lilac Wine 46th – DE, ED & AL Jones

Reserve senior male champion – Normanton 1 Crumbie – TD & WT Livesey

Junior male champion – Dendor 1 Cruzcampo – DE, ED & AL Jones

Reserve junior male champion – Dendor 1 Colorado – DE, ED & AL Jones

Reserve senior female champion –  Dendor 1 Jano 25th – DE, ED & AL Jones

Junior female champion – Rempstone 1 Luna P741 – M Ludgate

Reserve junior female champion – Rempstone 1 Tessa A768 – M Ludgate

Best pair of bull calves owned by the exhibitor 

1st – LG Gould – Baybridge Herd

2nd – GJ Twose – Beca Herd

3rd – The Benacre Company Ltd – Benacre Herd

Bull calf born September/October 2024 

1st – Normanton 1 Charlie Boy – TD & WT Livesey

2nd – Normanton 1 Crumbie – TD & WT Livesey

3rd – Porton House 1 Calon-Lan – P & V Moyle

Bull calf born November/December 2024 

1st – Coley 1 Centurion – Miss H Whittaker

2nd – Big Red 1 Electric – H Pocock & G Scott

3rd – Alderoak 1 Clarkson – P & E Williams

Bull calf born January/February 2025 (split class)

1st – Coley 1 Condor – Miss H Whittaker

2nd – Beca 1 Chilli Pepper – GJ Twose

3rd – Rempstone 1 Chucky – M Ludgate

1st –  Keadyview 1 Casino – S & H O’ Kane

2nd – Beca 1 Cookie – GJ Twose

3rd – Pulham 1 Capable – PRJ & LR Vincent

Bull calf born March 2025 (split) 

1st – Moralee 1 Caraboa – T & D Harrison

2nd – Hollyvale 1 Casper – A & P Massey

3rd – Benacre 3 Cassius Clay – The Benacre Company Ltd

1st – Dendor 1 Cruzcampo – DE, ED & AL Jones

2nd – Benacre 1 Christian Grey – The Benacre Company Ltd

3rd – Bosbury 1 Cracker – S Hawkins

Bull calf born April/May 2025

1st – Dendor 1 Colorado – DE, ED & AL Jones

2nd – Benacre 1 Centurion – The Benacre Company Ltd

3rd – Rough Moor 1 Cookie – T & M Goodwin & C Powell

Best pair of heifer calves owned by the exhibitor

1st – FJ Wood & Sons – Allwood Herd

2nd – W Awan – Midford

3rd – P & V Moyle – Porton House

Heifer calf born September/October 2024

1st – Dendor 1 Lilac Wine 46th – DE, ED & AL Jones

2nd – Dendor 1 Jano 25th – DE, ED & AL Jones

3rd – Normanton 1 Jews Ear 56th – TD & WT Livesey

Heifer calf born November/December 2024

1st – Studdolph 1 Precious 975 – Miss EN Thorne

2nd – Porton House 1 Starlett – P & V Moyle

3rd – Porton House 1 Lilac Wine 4th – P & V Moyle

Heifer calf born January/ February 2025 (split class) 

1st – Rempstone 1 Luna P741 – M Ludgate

2nd – RM 1 Starlet – E Hodge & H Whittaker

3rd – Pepperstock 1 Blossom C1144 – Speirs Farms Ltd

1st – Allwood 1 Greta 2nd – FJ Wood & Sons

2nd – Bosbury 1 Laurel C213 – S Hawkins

3rd – Bosbury 1 Laurel C208 – S Hawkins

Heifer calf born March 2025 

1st – JC 1 Marrigold 2nd – L Jackson-Carr

2nd – Moralee 1 Pippa TE401 – T & D Harrison

3rd – Ashdale 3 Queen 986 – TG, EI & EN Thorne

Heifer calf born April 2025

1st – Rempstone 1 Tessa A768 – M Ludgate

2nd – Hollyvale 1 Anna Mary 8th – A & P Massey

3rd – Rough Moor 1 Amethyst 492 – T & M Goodwin & C Powell

Young handlers 

19 – 26 years 

1st – Archie Roberts

2nd -Jorja Snook -Bevis

13 – 18 years

1st – Mia Shaw

2nd – Abbie Jackson-Carr

7 – 13 years

1st – Sid Shaw

2nd – Harry Hawkins

Overall champion 

Archie Roberts

Reserve champion 

Jorja Snook- Bevis

The English Winter Fair once again delivered an excellent showcase for the breed, with a strong turnout at the Staffordshire County Showground. Positivity was high among members, further boosted by an impressive number of spectators.

The live pedigree beef classes opened proceedings, with three entries forward in the steer class. Normanton 1 Billy, exhibited by TD and WT Livesey, was placed first under commercial judge Mr. M. Alford, Cullompton, Devon. In the heifer section, M. Coates of Leicestershire secured the top spot with Jolly 532.

The National Pedigree Calf Show followed, judged by Mr. Andrew Hughes of the Coley herd, Halifax. Three entries contested the senior bull calf class (born between 1 October and 31 December 2024). First place went to Moralee 1 Clint PA381, exhibited by Tom and Di Harrison of Northumberland. This October-born calf is sired by Moralee 1 Panda and out of Coley 1 Pippa 356, and had already impressed earlier in the season, taking reserve senior male at the Borderway Agri-Expo.

Mr. Hughes showed clear admiration for Clint from the outset, and the bull went on to claim both champion bull calf and overall supreme pedigree calf, praised for his power, strength, and balance.

Standing overall reserve pedigree calf champion was Dendor 1 Greta 42nd, a heifer well-known for her femininity and style. She previously topped a strong class at the National Hereford Poll Show in September. Born October 2024, she is sired by Solpoll 1 Vanquish and out of Dendor 1 Greta 32nd.

The depth of quality across the breed was particularly evident in the highly competitive intermediate bull calf class (born between 1 January and 31 March 2025), which attracted seven entries. Taking first place was Keadyview 1 Casino, exhibited by Keadyview Livestock. This January-born calf, sired by Moralee 1 Rebel Kicks and out of Holestone 1 355 BB Tessa, impressed with his breed character and easy temperament. He later secured the title of reserve champion bull calf.

In the heifer division, Grifford 1 True Beauty, exhibited by N. Griffiths, claimed reserve champion female calf. The February-born heifer placed first in a strong group of five and is sired by Normanton 1 Laertes and out of Greenyards 1 Truelove M314. This achievement marked a proud moment for the local breeder.

Full Results

Overall champion calf and champion bull calf – Moralee 1 Clint PA381 – T & D Harrison

Reserve overall champion calf and champion heifer calf – Dendor 1 Greta 42nd – DE, ED & AL Jones

Reserve champion bull calf – Keadyview 1 Casino – Keadyview Livestock

Reserve champion heifer calf – Grifford 1 True Beauty – N Griffiths

Results live beef cattle

Pedigree steer –

1st – Normanton 1 Billy – TD & WT Livesey

2nd – Parkapella 1 Bay Leaf – S & I Coates

3rd – Beefcake – M Coates

Pedigree heifer –

1st – Jolly 532 – Mo Coates

National Pedigree Calf Section

Senior bull calf, born between 1st October & 31st December 2024

1st – Moralee 1 Clint PA381 – T & D Harrison

2nd – Big Red 1 Electric – Pocock & Scott

3rd – Normanton 1 Compadre – TD & WT Livesey

Intermediate bull calf, born between 1st January & 31st March 2025

1st – Keadyview 1 Casino -Keadyview Livestock

2nd – Kinglee 1 Carlos – PK & IF Cobley

3rd – Dendor 1 Cruzcampo – DE, ED & AL Jones

Junior bull calf, born between 1st April & 30th June 2025

1st – Dendor 1 Colorado – DE, ED & AL Jones

Senior heifer calf, born between 1st October & 31st December 2024

1st – Dendor 1 Greta 42nd – DE, ED & AL Jones

2nd – Normanton 1 Jews Ear 46th – TD & WT Livesey

3rd – Creuddyn Curly – G & H Davies

Intermediate heifer calf, born between 1st January & 31st March 2025

1st – Grifford 1 True Beauty – N Griffiths

2nd – Sky High 1 Lucy’s Louis Vuitton – M & B Birch

3rd – Parkapella 1 Mandy 1643 – S & I Coates

Junior heifer calf, born between 1st April & 30th June 2025

1st – Woodside Moss 1 Foxglove – E Lloyd

This year’s Agrifest Southwest competition, held at the Westpoint Arena in Devon, saw an exceptional turnout of cattle. The Hereford classes were particularly well supported, attracting nearly 30 entries from a wide range of exhibitors.

The day began with the pedigree Hereford bull calf class for animals born in 2025. Due to high numbers, the class was split into two heats. Winning the first was Baybridge 1 Clyde, bred by Mr. Les Gould and exhibited by grandchildren Pete and Jo Compton. This January-born calf oozed style from the moment he entered the ring, making judge Ms. Maddie Clarke of Llanrwst, Wales, confident in her decision. His thickness, balance, and overall presence secured him the top spot.

The second heat was won by Bayridge 1 Crackalacking, also from Mr. Gould. This February-born calf showcased the same style and correctness, with both bulls being sired by Weybrook 1 Drake. When the heat winners went head-to-head, Bayridge 1 Clyde came out on top. He continued his strong run by taking the reserve pedigree native calf male championship.

In the pedigree Hereford heifer calf class for 2025-born animals, seven strong females came forward. Allwood 1 Greta 2nd from F. J. Wood & Sons was the clear winner. The February-born heifer is sired by River Dale 1 Whizz Kid and out of Dendor 1 Greta 33rd. She went on to secure the reserve pedigree native calf female championship, with Ms. Clarke praising her femininity, flashy appearance, and ring presence. She then impressed once again by taking the reserve pedigree native calf championship.

Senior Section

In the Hereford senior bull calf class (born 1 September–31 December 2024), first place went to Midford 1 Crackerjack from W. Awan. The journey from Bath, Somerset, proved worthwhile as Crackerjack went on to secure the pedigree senior male, senior pedigree calf champion, and native senior male champion titles. This October 2024-born bull has already tasted success, previously winning junior male champion and reserve male champion at this year’s National Poll Show. He is sired by Kinglee 1 The New One and out of Gouldingpoll 1 Ravette 738.

Taking reserve native senior male champion was Allwood 1 Captain from F. J. Wood & Sons. This September 2024-born bull is out of Pepperstock 1 Orchid V707 and sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Duncan.

Young Native Bull of the Year (Born in 2024)

A strong entry of ten bulls, representing five native breeds, competed for this title. Allwood 1 Brigadier, also from F. J. Wood & Sons, placed 2nd overall, a notable achievement for the South Devon-based Wood family. Impressively, the result was a unanimous decision by both judges, Ms. Maddie Clarke and continental judge Ben Maskell. Brigadier is sired by Dendor 1 Kohinoor and out of Rempstone 1 Anna Mary N506.

Full Results

Pedigree Native Calf Female Champion – Reserve – Allwood 1 Greta 2nd – FJ Wood & Sons

Pedigree Native Calf Male Champion – Reserve – Baybridge 1 Clyde – Mr L Gould

Pedigree Native Calf Champion – Reserve overall – Allwood 1 Greta 2nd – FJ Wood & Sons

Native Senior Male Champion – Midford 1 Crackerjack – W Awan

Reserve Native Senior Male Champion – Allwood 1 Captain – FJ Wood & Sons

Pedigree Senior Male and Senior Pedigree Calf Champion – Midford 1 Crackerjack – W Awan 

Pedigree Hereford bull calf born in 2025 (split class due to high entries)

1st – Baybridge 1 Clyde – Mr L Gould

2nd – Keadyview 1 Casino – Keadyview Livestock

3rd – Creuddyn 1 Chillout – Mr G Davies

1st – Baybridge 1 Crackalacking – Mr L Gould

2nd – Keadyview 1 Cuddles – Keadyview Livestock

3rd – Lanscombe 1 Gunmar – RA & VA Mitchell

Overall – Baybridge 1 Clyde – Mr L Gould

Reserve – Baybridge 1 Crackalacking – Mr L Gould

Pedigree Hereford heifer calf born in 2025

1st – Allwood 1 Greta 2nd – FJ Wood & Sons

2nd – Allwood 1 Miss 2nd – FJ Wood & Sons

3rd – Lanscombe 1 Gracie – RA & VA Mitchell

Senior Hereford bull calf born between 1st September to 31st December 2024

1st – Midford 1 Crackerjack – W Awan

2nd – Allwood 1 Captain – FJ Wood & Sons

3rd – Adzor Curiosity – DJ Makin

Senior Hereford heifer calf born between 1st September to 31st December should this be 2024

1st – Allwood 1 Mink 2nd – FJ Wood & Sons

2nd – Creuddyn Curly – Mr G Davies

3rd – Spartan 1 Oyster Gem Sv C271 – SC & GL Hartwright

The Stars of the Future Calf Show once again proved to be an excellent indicator of the quality and promise to come for the upcoming show season. This year’s event did not disappoint, with a strong display of quality cattle throughout the classes.

Senior Males

The day began with the senior male section, which saw two strong entries forward. Leading the way was Maxwell 1 Crack-a-Lackin, exhibited by Miss Cara Doggett. This October 2024-born bull demonstrated true potential and style. Sired by Coley 1 Weiderman and out of Coley 1 Mink 634, a cow purchased by Cara, he went on to impress the judge, Mr William McLaren of the Netherton herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle, to claim both the senior male and overall male championships.

Taking the reserve male championship was Panmure 1 Colonel from J. M. Cant & Partners. This December 2024-born bull, out of Panmure 1 Plum P10 and sired by Romany 1 Thor FR T4, showed excellent breed character and presence throughout.

Junior Males

In the junior male section, Moralee 1 Casino PR395, exhibited by Daniel Holmes, topped his class for bulls born between 4th January and 22nd April 2025. He then went on to secure both the junior male and overall junior championships. This January 2025-born bull is sired by Moralee 1 RHS Prince KR R8 and out of Moralee 1 Kathryn 2nd.

The reserve junior male championship went to Bennachie 1 Cracker from Ian Skea of the Bennachie herd. Competing in the same class as Casino, this March 2025-born bull proved the exceptional quality within this age group.

Females

The female section also impressed, with a strong line-up of young heifers representing the breed.

Leading the senior division was Panmure 1 Plum C3, again from J. M. Cant & Partners. True to her breeding, she hails from the renowned Plum family, her dam Panmure 1 Plum S8 is a half-sister to stablemate Colonel, and she is sired by Romany 1 Thor FR T4.

Taking the reserve senior female championship was Coneys 1 Eira, from T. & K. Coney & Sons. The oldest heifer forward on the day, she was born in September 2024 and is out of Hean 1 Eira 000, sired by Hean 1 Worthwhile 217.

In the junior female section, the junior female and reserve overall championship went to Bennachie 1 Zara 3rd, also from Ian Skea and the Bennachie herd, rounding off a highly successful day for the team. One of the youngest in her class, this March-born heifer is sired by Bennachie 1 Tam and out of Polinar 1 Zara.

Finally, the reserve junior female championship went to Garnet 1 Eira 008, exhibited by Brenda R. Wear. The youngest heifer forward, born in April 2025, is out of Hean 1 Eira 854 and sired by Hean 1 Worthwhile 217. Her dam was purchased at the Hean dispersal sale in August 2024.

Full results

Junior overall and junior male champion – Daniel Holmes Moralee 1 Casino PR395

Reserve male champion – Ian Skea – Bennachie 1 Cracker

Junior female and reserve overall champion – Ian Skea – Bennachie 1 Zara 3rd

Reserve female champion – Brenda R Wear – Garnet 1 Eira 008

Senior male and overall senior champion – Cara Doggett – Maxwell 1 Crack-a-lackin’

Reserve male champion – J M Cant & Partners Panmure 1 Colonel

Senior female and reserve overall champion – J M Cant & Partners Panmure 1 Plum C3

Reserve female champion – T&K Coney & Sons – Coneys 1 Eira

Class 1 – Senior Males (3rd October – 28th December 2024)

1st – Cara Doggett – Maxwell 1 Crack-a-lackin’

2nd – J M Cant & Partners – Panmure 1 Colonel

Class 2 – Senior Females (14th September – 20th December 2024) 

1st – J M Cant & Partners – Panmure 1 Plum C3

2nd – T&K Coney & Sons – Coneys 1 Eira

3rd – Daniel Holmes – Moralee 1 Lucy PR383

Class 3 – Junior Males (4th January – 22nd April 2025)

1st – Daniel Holmes – Moralee 1 Casino PR395

2nd – Ian Skea – Bennachie 1 Cracker

3rd -. Ian Skea – Bennachie 1 Caber

Class 4 – Junior Females (1st January -2nd April 2025)

1st – Ian Skea – Bennachie 1 Zara 3rd

2nd – Brenda R Wear – Garnet 1 Eira 008

3rd -.Daniel Holmes Back O Hill