Thousands flock to key UK Dairy Expo event in Cumbria

Thousands of spectators flocked to the town for Borderway UK Dairy Expo 2016, one of the top dairy cattle shows in Europe.

Organised by Harrison and Hetherington Group, Borderway UK Dairy Expo brings together the very best of British dairy cattle, talent from the UK dairy industry and international dairy genetics.

Brian Richardson Chief Executive of the H&H Group, said: “This is a key event for the industry, and for us.

“Although uncertainty surrounds the dairy industry, today’s breeders and exhibitors demonstrated faith and confidence, going forward.”

With more than 6000, visitors, 350 dairy cattle entries, 50 showmanship entries and over 120 trade stands, it is an industry platform aimed at supporting farmers and commercial representatives.

The event highlighted the tremendous quality of dairy cattle that the UK has to offer.

The three international judges were hugely impressed with the line-up of entries, and enthusiastically praised all the animals on display as being world class in breeding and presentation.

The star of the show was Alister Laird, of Blythbridge in Peebleshire.

He and his family won three championship awards, including the Champion of Champions title with Holstein cow Illens Atwood Australia.

And Alister himself won the John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award for his commitment and dedication to the dairy industry.