Highly regarded as one of the finest fatstock events in Europe, the Royal Welsh Winter Fair is once again keen to attract the top livestock exhibits from across the country, all competing for their share of over £25,000 of total prize money up for grabs during the two-day event.
The 2015 Royal Welsh Winter Fair, which last year celebrated its 25th anniversary, will be held at the showground in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells on Monday, 30 November and Tuesday, 1 December.
This year the financial rewards for the fair’s major championships has been increased by nearly 230% with the cattle Championship prize money now the highest of any of the major fatstock events in the UK.
The championship prize money for 2015 will be as follows:
· Supreme Cattle Champion: £1,250 and £750 for the reserve
· Supreme Sheep Champion: £200 and £100 for the reserve
· Supreme Lamb Carcass Single Champion: £100 and £50 for the reserve
· Supreme Pig Single Champion: £100 and £50 for the reserve
· Supreme Horse Champion: £250 and £150 for the reserve
Assistant Chief Executive of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, Aled Jones said: "We are very excited by the increase in prize money on offer and are keen to encourage strong entries in all sections. Our desire to continue attracting first class animals to the Winter Fair is matched by our commitment to offer first class prizes and accolades."
This year’s cattle section sees the introduction of new classes in both the heifer and steer sections for the best animal purchased at auction for under £1,400, and a new Butcher's Choice Competition. In the sheep section, the Hill Flock class in the Pure Welsh Mountain Breeds section has been re-introduced.
“The planning and organisation of the Winter Fair takes place all year round and we are continually working hard to keep the competitions and classes fresh and interesting for the exhibitors, visitors and potential buyers attending the fair.” says Winter Fair Honorary Director, Will Hanks.
“Last year’s event was a resounding success, with outstanding livestock exhibits and a record crowd. This year we aim to offer the same fantastic experience to all our visitors and will once again be repeating the hugely successful late night shopping on the Monday evening, with free entry to the fair after 4pm and a whole host of seasonal attractions on offer.”
The livestock schedule with details of over 200 classes, special awards and championships, will be available at the end of September and the closing date for entries is 21 October 2015.
Along with the ever-popular livestock classes, the fair also hosts competitions for produce and handicrafts, poultry, horticulture, beer and cider, meat, sausages and cheese, so there is something for everyone to get involved in.
Away from the judging rings the very best of Welsh food producers will showcase their produce and Christmas shoppers will be able to explore the hundreds of tradestands, demonstrations, exhibitions and attractions.
