Alnwick cattle breeder to judge at Borderway Agri Expo
Alnwick breeder Dallas Allen will take centre stage at one of the UK’s leading autumn livestock events, judging the Aberdeen-Angus National Calf Show at Borderway Agri Expo.
Dallas Allen, who runs the Stouphill Aberdeen-Angus herd at Humbleheugh, will be among the judges at this year's Borderway Agri Expo, when farmers and breeders from across the UK gather at Borderway Mart, Carlisle, on Friday, October 30.
Established in 2008, the Stouphill herd now comprises around 30 pedigree Aberdeen-Angus cows, run alongside the family's flock of 1,700 pedigree North Country Cheviot sheep. The herd has enjoyed considerable success in the show ring, including winning both the male and female Aberdeen-Angus championships at the 200th Royal Highland Show.
An experienced judge who has officiated at major Royal shows and breed events across the four nations, Dallas will be looking for calves that move well, are correct on their legs and display true Aberdeen-Angus character and presence.
Dallas said: “I am delighted to have been invited to judge and am looking forward to seeing the quality of calves forward. Agri Expo is an important showcase for the future of the Aberdeen-Angus breed. It gives breeders the opportunity to present their calf crop and see how different bulls and cow families are breeding. It also gives people the opportunity to identify young animals they can follow through to future sales.”
Organised by H+H Livestock, Agri Expo combines commercial cattle and sheep competitions with seven National Calf Shows. New British Limousin and British Charolais championships join established shows for Aberdeen-Angus, Beef Shorthorn, British Blue, Hereford and Simmental.
Away from the livestock rings, a seminar at 1.30pm will examine whether the greatest pressures facing British beef and sheep producers come from imports or closer to home. The discussion will feature Phil Stocker, Chief Executive of the National Sheep Association, Robert Martin, National Chair of the Tenant Farmers Association, and Borders livestock farmer James Playfair-Hannay.
Laura Millar, Agri Expo Event Organiser, said: “Our exhibitors from across the UK bring tremendous quality to the judging rings, and their support is an important part of Agri Expo's success.
“For visitors, it is a chance to assess breeding stock, meet specialists and discuss decisions affecting their businesses. The seminar will give producers an opportunity to hear informed views on the challenges ahead and contribute their own experiences.”
A new Auctioneering Competition, organised with the Livestock Auctioneers Association, will offer Under-16 and Open classes for aspiring auctioneers. The event will also feature a major agricultural trade exhibition and the presentation of the David Thomlinson Lifetime Achievement Award.