CHULMLEIGH Sheep Show took place on Wednesday, July 29 as part of the Chulmleigh Old Fair celebrations.

It opened this year with the popular Young Shepherd classes. Whilst we often hear that the average farmer is getting older, most Devon farms still revolve around the family unit, one generation passing on what they know to the next, everyone helping, the older generations encouraging the next generations ... it’s at the heart of the family farm.

The Reserve Champion and Champion Young Shepherds were Jasmine and Mollie Reed.
The Reserve Champion and Champion Young Shepherds were Jasmine and Mollie Reed. (Mrs E. Reed)

The organisers of the Show are grateful to expert judges from across the Westcountry who brought their expertise to the show, ranging from judges who also work at county show level to ambitious younger judges, who gain valuable experience at smaller shows.

Show Secretary, Rachel Francis said: “As a small show, we believe it is important to aspire to the same excellent standards as a larger show. Professional judging helps us work to high standards, while ensuring we remain a supportive entry point for farmers, young entrants and smaller breeders looking to gain experience and showcase their stock.

Mr Robert Hopper of Gogwell Farm, Tiverton judged the Interbreed and Championship sections and also the Young Handlers. One of our youngest entrants was this young man, photograph by his mum.
Mr Robert Hopper of Gogwell Farm, Tiverton judged the Interbreed and Championship sections and also the Young Handlers. One of our youngest entrants was this young man, photograph by his mum. (Lynn Vallance)

“Despite a number of last-minute cancellations due to an outbreak of Bluetongue, organisers checked with local and DEFRA vets and decided that as long as everyone was careful to double check their sheep before coming, it was safe to run the show.

Marion Elsworthy said: “We want to thank so many people for coming to support our show. We really hope that those who had booked in, but were forced to cancel due to the sheep disease Bluetongue are not having too awful of a time with this dreadful disease.”

The Sheep Show is a small show by today’s standards, local farmers check, clean and mend the hurdles for the sheep pens and put up the pens every year.

The show organisers, stewards and secretary are volunteers, many from the farming community.