2007 Royal Show set to be a landmark event for livestock
Some of farming's finest moments have been shared in the cattle, sheep and pig lines of the Royal Show, and 2007 is set to be no exception. Consistently the highest standard seen at any show in the UK, there will be a number of livestock firsts and new appearances that will affirm the Royal's title as the premier agricultural show.
"The quality of livestock competing at the 2006 show was widely acclaimed as outstanding," notes Royal Show executive director Peter Stovold. "For those, like me, who were privileged enough to see it, it really was a magnificent display. Only the Royal Show, Britain's premier agricultural show, can consistently set such a high standard. And, for those who share a passion for the best livestock to grace the championship ring, this year's line-up is unmissable."
As always, the highlight in the cattle lines will be the Burke Trophy inter breed championship that will take place in the Grand Ring. Other highlights include the ever-popular Senior and Junior Championships, the Beef Breeder competition and the Beef and Dairy Teams of Five Championships. "A win at the Royal is extremely prestigious and can be a huge boost for business. A Burke trophy win is the ultimate accolade," points out Mr Stovold.
The cream of Britain's flocks will be on show in the sheep arena, and this year the highly successful group of three championship has been expanded to include all 35 breeds. "That means there'll be up to 105 of Britain's four-legged finest on display at one time – it will be the biggest livestock championship ever to take place on British soil, and a unique spectacle."
Making its debut in the pig classes is the Oxford, Sandy and Black. "This fascinating breed is proving a huge hit with smallholders, and we're delighted to be adding a class that will be of particular interest to the growing number of new entrant and small-scale farmers visiting the show," comments Mr Stovold.
"The breadth and quality of the livestock on display are reasons enough to attend the 2007 Royal Show. What's more the show has a great reputation as the shop window for the best of British livestock – no other UK event offers better ties with UK and international breeding and genetic businesses.
"With the organisation of the show now back in the hands of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, we're keen to develop its reputation as the platform to showcase the very best of British Agriculture, and the cattle, sheep and pig lines are just part of what promises to be a great day out. The Royal Show is an iconic event that every year explores new opportunities and tackles the real issues that farmers face, both today and in the future. It's a chance to see and savour the very best the countryside has to offer."
