History was made at Dalmally Show, when a black Highlander was crowned breed champion for the first time.

The event, which not only saw increased entries in the cattle section, but also one of the biggest line ups of Blackface sheep in the open, confined and YFC Blackie competitions, was also hailed as one of the best in recent years, with overall attendance figures well up on the year.

There was plenty of drama especially amongst the cattle too as an umpire had to be brought in to decide the overall cattle champion, which in the end turned out to be a five month-old black Limousin cross heifer from Douglas MacDonald, Tyree, Benderloch. His calf, christened Tasty Ribs, already boasts several top awards this year and is to be retained as a cow.

Making history amongst the Highland cattle was the first black, Frangag Dudh of Cladich, from Banchory breeder, Ian Adams, which secured the breed title. This three-year-old in-calf heifer is also another star performer at agricultural shows.

Leading the largest section, the Blackies, was a ewe lamb from Tommy Paterson, Auchloy, Crieff. This was a previously unshown lamb by a £38,000 Auchloy.

FOR FULL REPORT and PICTURES see this week's SCOTTISH FARMER