Eight years after the initial Stars of the Future Calf Show, the event is going from strength to strength, with this year's big day on Saturday, November 11, expected to another bumper entry of 400 calves covering no fewer than eight breeds.

An early morning start coupled with numerous show rings and excellent stewarding appears to be a winning formula, as entries have been increasing since the first show in 2009 which saw 250 head forward.

In contrast to most other breed shows, there is no overall breed champion. Instead competitors are able to compete for the inter-breed native and inter-breed continental titles.

"My view has always been to keep it simple and make sure it runs as smoothly as possible and have the majority of the judging over by 3.30pm," said Adrian Ivory, who has been chairman of the event since it moved to United Auctions', Stirling Agricultural Centre, five years ago.

"The show is a great opportunity for people to exhibit their calves and see how they stand up to the competition but it is also an ideal way for buyers to follow animals from a young age through until sale time," added Mr Ivory who said other breeds would be welcome although a minimum of at least 15 entries is required.

He also believes that one of the major attractions of the show is that with an overall native and continental champion, everyone feels they have the chance of winning the top awards which this year are being judged by Jim Goldie, of the Goldies Charolais and Limousin herds from Dumfries.

Mr Goldie will also be putting the calves through their paces for the inter-breed pairs, while Bridget Borlase has just a big a job judging the young handler competitions.

As in previous years, there is a barbecue the night before the show, to get the 'banter' going, but be warned ... This year's event again kicks off with the judging on the Saturday morning at 8.30am...

Judges

Simmental and overall young handlers – Bridget Borlase, Sacombe Hill Farm, Hertford

Charolais – Chris Curry, Burradon, Morpeth, Northumberland

Hereford and Beef Shorthorn – Donald Biggar, Chapelton, Castle Douglas

British Blue – Issy Hartley,Pendle Valley, Roughlee, Nelson, Lancs

Highland – Alan Bosomworth, Ormsary Cottages, Ormsary, Lochgilphead

Limousin – Craig Ridley, Haltcliffe, Hesket New Market,

Aberdeen Angus – Dallas Allen, Stouphill, Alnwick

Overall and Joe Watson pairs – Jim Goldie, Dumfries

At present, entries are as follows, but a lot more are expected on the run up to the event.

Aberdeen Angus – 55

Hereford – 22

British Blue – 30

Shorthorn – 30

Highland – 40

Charolais – 50

Simmental – 45

Limousin – 65