While there is no doubt this year's Royal Highland Showcase cannot be a patch on the previous world-class livestock events we have all come to love and live for at Ingliston – due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions – it is however, one that has to be hugely admired and relished when the vast majority of such events have either been cancelled or postponed.

Having the inspiration and enthusiasm to keep this year's show alive from the onset, when many were dropping off like flies, has not only been a massive undertaking by all the organisers and those behind the scenes, but also the breeders and exhibitors who have enabled The Royal Highland Showcase to finally come to fruition.

Yet again, Scotland's top livestock farmers have come to the rescue by finding the strength, energy and time to prepare the best of their cattle, sheep and horses, at somewhat short notice when many deemed such an event impossible with so many restrictions in place and changing all the time. In doing so, our Scottish livestock industry has a platform to show off the best of its wares to town and country folks alike across the length and breadth of the UK – if not as exhibitors as online viewers.

And, as we all gear up to the best possible 'Highland Showcase' that can be staged under the current Covid restrictions, The Scottish Farmer, is looking forward to bringing you, our loyal readers the best news and reports on the run up to this exciting new timetabled event.

This week, we kick off with profiles of the extremely capable, aspiring young beef cattle judges for The Showcase, each one of whom is a credit to our industry and undoubtedly will continue to be for years to come.

Aberdeen-Angus

Andrew Adam (22)

Andrew Adam

Andrew Adam

Bagging best individual beef stock judger at the Royal Highland in 2019, secured Andrew Adam, of Newhouse of a Glamis, Forfar, the eligibility to take control of the Aberdeen-Angus judging at this year’s Showcase.

Having studied at Oatridge SRUC college, Andrew soon found his way back home to work with the pedigree cattle there, which at present includes seven Aberdeen-Angus, 25 Charolais and 70 black and red Limousins.

“You just can’t beat the character of the Aberdeen-Angus if you get that right one, with a great head and big alert ears!

“I am looking for a correct, well moving animal that has to be sound on its feet and legs, to show the breed characteristics, and to be well fleshed carrying width from its shoulder through to its plates and down to its second thigh,” said Andrew.

“I feel the Angus has a massive part to play in the modern day market, as we are looking more closely to beef quality and that is where the Aberdeen-Angus is at the top for its great marbling through the meat. The Aberdeen-Angus is a house hold brand name now and everyone wants to eat Angus steak as it is truly the best!

“I think the beef industry has a strong future and with the current prices it shows there are plenty of people eating beef and enjoying it, so long may that continue,” added Andrew.

Andrew was on track to getting a few judging elements under his belt last year, but due to the ongoing pandemic they have been put on hold, although he has previously judged both Angus and the Black Isle shows.

“The advice I would give to someone wanting to get into agriculture is to go for it, it’s a great industry to be in and there are so many different parts to it. There is something to suit everyone.

“There are many people that I look up to in the beef industry! Jim Goldie is one of them, as he is a great cattle breeder that has been at the top of his breeds for a long time. I have also been inspired into the industry by my two late grandfathers, Drew Adam and Alan Fotheringham. I spent a lot of time with them when I was younger, teaching me how to work with and breed cattle.”

In just a few weeks, Andrew will take to the ring to show his judging talents: “I am going to miss the usual atmosphere around the show when it is on and the buzz about the Exhibition Hall when the judging starts. The fun we all have at the bars around the shows catching up with friends that we have not seen for a while will be on hold until next year.

“However, I am looking forward to the event this year, it will be great to see a show of cattle and to see everyone having a bit of fun bringing their stock out.”

Beef Shorthorns

John McCulloch (21)

John McCulloch

John McCulloch

Having been involved with livestock all his life, there was never going to be another career option for John McCulloch, who is now a stockman with George Barbour and Co, Dumfries, working with suckler cows and beef cross dairy calves.

Growing up, John’s father, George, was stockman for various pedigree herds of Charolais, Limousins and more recently Beef Shorthorns, in Yorkshire, and his papa was head yardsman at Caledonian market in Stirling.

“It is important to always take time to listen to the advice from people who have been doing it for longer than you – every day is a school day! Never let an opportunity pass you by, because they don’t come along very often!,” he said.

In just a few weeks’ time John will take to the show ring and find his winning tickets among the Beef Shorthorns.

“I think it is fantastic that RHASS are still having an event even, though it can’t be the show that we are all used to. This is one step closer to hopefully having the real thing again next year and will give people some hope.

“I have always enjoyed going to Ingliston. The atmosphere is electric and the social element is second to none. You see people there who you may not have seen since the previous show. It is also a chance to learn about the latest innovations in the industry and stay up to date. The Young Farmers’ stockjudging competition is always a highlight,” added John.

Bagging tickets at various stockjudging events over the years, John came second in the junior stockjudging competition at the Royal Highland Show in 2014; first in the Aberdeen-Angus YDP stockjudging finals in 2013, 2014 and 2015 and in 2015, won the National Young Stockperson’s award at the Royal Smithfield Festival.

As a young handler, John was awarded the reserve championship at the Royal Highland Show in 2012, and champion at the Great Yorkshire Show in 2015.

Having previously judged native beef classes at Stranraer Show in 2017, the beef calf inter-breed and beef young handlers at the Royal Norfolk Show in 2019, as well as Beef Shorthorns at Halifax in 2019, John said he is looking for: “Cattle with tremendous character which they show off with style and are correct on parade. I’ll also be looking for animals which are naturally fleshed and have plenty of width as well as being big enough to function, without being too fat. Huge animals can be very costly to maintain and can be inefficient!

“The Beef Shorthorn is an all-round cattle breed, with tremendous qualities which serves both the pedigree and commercial aspects of the industry. Hardiness and ability to forage on rough grazing make the Beef Shorthorn a great choice for hill farmers and their milkiness ensures that they can fit in well and work hard in a commercial setting, as well as having the correctness and style to stand out in the pedigree show ring!

“The beef industry is going through massive changes. In time gone bye, continental cattle on grain fed systems were the cornerstone, however now the qualities of native breeds are being realised and are being used more extensively in commercial herds due to the shorter finishing period and ability to finish easier on grassland,” explained John.

Belted Galloway

Judith Cowie (30)

Judith Cowie

Judith Cowie

Although not from a farming background, Judith’s grandparents and uncles farm dairy, beef and sheep at High Copelaw, Newton Aycliffe, near Darlington, where she spent many school holidays, gaining a strong interest in agriculture.

Judith has farmed by herself since the age of 17 and now runs 140 ewes and 30 cows, which consist of 10 pedigree Belted Galloway females and 20 Limousin cross cows which are calved to Salers and Charolais sires.

Tobergill Heather and Tobergill Lily were the foundation females for Judith's pedigree Belted Galloway herd.

“The confidence those two animals gave me was unbelievable. I was an incredibly shy person but taking that cow and calf to shows really helped me get out there more. I’m immensely proud of what I have overcome and accomplished in my life, and I will be forever grateful to Belted Galloways,” said Judith.

On top of farming cattle and sheep, Judith has worked full time for Wallets Marts, at Castle Douglas, as livestock office manager and procurement for 12 years.

“My grandad, William Walker, was a big inspiration to me. He was one of the most hard working people I know, and was always interested in what I was up to. He had many successes himself showing and judging both Dales ponies and Clydesdales.

“Unfortunately, he passed away in the back end of last year so he won’t get to watch me judging, but he saw me winning in the showring which I am thankful for. I hope I do him proud,” said Judith, who exhibits at local shows, Stewartry, Stranraer and Glenkens, where she has secured breed championships at all three.

However, 2019 was an exceptional year as she landed the Belted Galloway championship with Copelaw Ruby at the Royal Highland Show, and champion of champions at Wigtown Show.

“Winning any show is always a great honour, but to do it with a home-bred animal makes it extra special,” she said.

No stranger to the show ring as an exhibitor this will, however, be Judith’s first time stepping into the ring as a judge.

“I am honoured to have been asked to judge, I am looking for an animal that is correct and well balanced, showing plenty of breed character with a little bit of sparkle about them,” said Judith.

“Belted Galloways have such a unique appearance and they are known for their hardiness and top quality beef. Aside from being sought after due to their unique appearance, the breed is well equipped for beef production.

“In an ever changing world, where pollution is becoming increasingly talked about, the Belted Galloway, like many other native breeds, can provide an example of a low carbon footprint system.

“Farmed using a low input system the Beltie can turn rough grazing in to tasty lean beef. Capable of living outside all their life and producing calves for many years, they are well prepared for what lies ahead.

“The reputation for Scotch Beef creates an exciting foundation for the future. We have a fantastic, tasty product which is produced from the highest standards. Increased demand from the home market has seen prices soar over the last year, which is encouraging.

“This must continue, not least to sustain current producers but also to ensure the next generation of YFs can honestly believe that farming is a viable career opportunity.

“I know myself how difficult it is to get a start, with farm tenancies rarely available and the opportunity to buy a farm being totally out of the question due to current values. Producing high quality beef takes years of planning and hard work, and if we cannot get a continued sustainable finished price, how can we be expected to continue let alone ask the next generation to start?

“Farming isn’t easy and you really do have to love what you do. Be prepared for a lot of hard work and long hours, a lot of disappointment and tears but also be ready to enjoy beautiful moments like lambs playing in big groups on spring evenings, calves up and suckled skipping around their mothers only a few hours old.

“And, standing up next to the auctioneer on sale day with a packed ringside of buyers and fellow farmers being immensely proud of what you have produced to sell.

“Listen to anyone who is willing to give advice and help you. Don’t be afraid to change things and find what works for you. Never let things get you down as we all go through similar struggles and talking about what bothers us can really take the pressure off. I think farming has a bright future and I’m so privileged to be part of it and so should you be.

“The atmosphere of a usual Royal Highland is electric and really showcases what the farming industry has on offer. Meeting new people and those you haven’t seen since last year’s show. I have to say the shopping is something I’ll miss though – and the Food Hall.”

British Blue

Stephanie Dick (26)

Stephanie Dick

Stephanie Dick

Taking to the fore as the British Blue judge at this year’s Showcase will be Stephanie Dick, who works full-time as a farmer at home on the family farm at Westerton, near Stirling.

Working alongside her father, Ronald, and grand father, David, Steph helps manage the busy life of 250 pedigree Limousin cows and a small British Blue herd under the Ronick prefix, alongside 50 suckler cows and a contracting business to go with the arable enterprise.

After leaving school, Stephanie attended agricultural college before travelling to Oklahoma to work on a ranch. On returning home with a passion for Aberdeen-Angus, Stephanie founded her Stephick Angus herd to run alongside a Limousin herd she established a few years previously.

As well as the cattle, she also manages a commercial flock of about 90 ewes and more recently, a pedigree Blue Texel flock.

“I love my job as a full-time farmer, however, I also work for the Aberdeen Angus Cattle Society as youth development programme co-ordinator for Scotland, which is great fun,” Stephanie stated.

With The Showcase event almost upon us, Stephanie already knows exactly what type of animal she’ll be selecting.

“I like the British Blues for varying aspects. Firstly and most obviously, I admire the muscling and carcase qualities that they give to suckled calves, however, I also love to work with the Blues for their docile temperament,” she said.

“In the show ring, I will be looking for an overall well-balanced and correct animal that has that little bit extra show ring sparkle to them.”

While Stephanie has previously judged many local shows throughout Scotland and England, as well as some larger appointments like the Aberdeen-Angus at Stirling Bull Sales and the Red Ladies at Carlisle, she has also shone in stockjudging competitions, having previously won SAYFC’s beef individual, and beef pairs twice and has been a part of the winning team for the Glasgow Herald Trophy on no fewer than seven occasions at the Highland.

“Although I have enjoyed many successions in the ring, my greatest show achievement would actually be winning the Aberdeen-Angus section at the Royal Highland in 2018,” Stephanie commented.

While Stephanie is taking to the ring to show off her judging skills, she is also looking forward to re-uniting with friends and family after a year away from the show circuit.

“I am looking forward to seeing some sort of normality being back in the show ring after a long year, as well as seeing the cattle and the familiar faces.

“Judging the Royal Highland Showcase will be a real honour and it means a lot to have been considered to be asked to judge such a prestigious event. I am greatly looking forward to the day,” she commented.

“Although it won’t be a normal year, I think it is great that the show has been brave enough to go ahead and they are putting so much effort into making an event for the exhibitors, as well as the streaming to the public, rather than yet another cancelled show.”

Charolais and Blondes

Ellis Mutch (28)

Ellis Mutch

Ellis Mutch

Being a full-time farmer, auctioneer and retained firefighter means Aberdeenshire-based Ellis Mutch has little spare time to himself and even less now with his one-year-old son, Eric.

Ellis is the third generation to farm at Burnside of Whitefield, Forglen, working in partnership with his father, Eric, on their mixed enterprise farm, and now running 24 pedigree Charolais cows.

“Charolais cattle have always been a favoured breed in our family for their gentle temperament, ability to produce good commercial calves, and for how they look. There is nothing better than seeing a field of white cows and calves against the green grass on a sunny day and many people, even outwith the farming community, comment on this every year.

“The Charolais has a strong position in today’s market, having the best feed conversion ratio and fast-finishing attributes which makes them ideal for any finisher.”

Commenting on the type of cattle he will be looking for in the show ring, he said: “I will be looking for an animal that is of a good size for its age, with length and conformation in the right places, correct on its legs, which leads onto good locomotion around the ring. Plenty of breed character and spark in its head and ears, holding it high throughout – sweet for a female and strong for a male.”

While Ellis had previously judged at the Stirling Bull Sales in May, 2017, as well as at Perth and Echt, he has also excelled in stockjudging competitions, taking the beef individual in 2014 and beef pairs in 2015 at the SAYFC Stockmanship Programme.

He is also a former North-east and Central Charolais club stockjudging individual winner in 2014 and 2016 as well as the SAYFC Grampian rally overall stockjudging winner in 2010 and 2015. The icing on the cake, however, was winning the British Charolais Society National Stockjudging in 2011 which led to a prize-winning trip to Canada to represent the society in an international event.

“It is a true honour to be asked to judge at The Showcase event. I am very much looking forward to it. After a year of cancelled agricultural shows, it will be a real treat to see many of Scotland’s top animals parading and to sense the excitement of competition between everyone.

“The social aspect is one of my favourite aspects of the Royal Highland Show, meeting new people and catching up with old friends that you would otherwise not get a chance to see. As a previous competitor there’s nothing better than the buzz and the camaraderie at the show, which can be witnessed in all of the competitions from YFs to sheep shearing, and makes them even more enjoyable to watch.

“For any young person looking to get into the industry they should join their local YF Club, as the opportunity to learn so many new skills, travel and meet like-minded people, is priceless and has undoubtedly helped me in my time,” said Ellis.

Ellis also believes it was the experience of YF throughout his career that helped him get to where he is today.

“There are many great people in the industry and aside from my grandfathers, father and father-in-law, one stalwart who has a few tales to tell would be Jimmy Wilson, of Barnyards, Mintlaw.

“He has always been a great enthusiast for helping young people within the Charolais breed, where he is known as one of the top breeders. His knowledge of an animal, both cattle and sheep, is second to none. Farmers are time poor so anyone who spends time actively encouraging the next generation is worthy of recognition.

“I do believe there is a good, strong future for the beef industry. Over the course of the Covid-19 pandemic many people have been shopping locally in butchers and farm shops and have come to realise the quality of produce we have right here on our doorstep.

“I hope that restaurants recognise this and offer Scotch Beef on the menu and shoppers continue to buy Scottish, even if they return to the convenience of a supermarket,” concluded Ellis.

Galloway and Lincoln Red

Stephen Taylor (23)

Stephen Taylor

Stephen Taylor

Having secured countless awards within the SAYFC stockmanship programme and making a name for himself working with various herds in his time, gave Stephen Taylor the grounding for judging the Galloway and Lincoln Red cattle classes at the Royal Highland Showcase.

Having previously working with various breeds, including Charolais, Galloways, Limousin, Aberdeen-Angus, Beef Shorthorns, Lincoln Reds, commercial cattle and Highlanders, there are few that have evaded his grip.

“Although I do not come from a farming background, agriculture runs in my blood and I have grown up around the industry all my life. Currently, I am an engineer for DairyFlow and have worked with them since June, 2019,” he said.

Stephen has enjoyed selecting prize winners at previous events, having judged at Mid Argyll, the Royal Norfolk, South East Charolais Club calf show and Strontian shows, the experience of which will help him select his choice of champion on the big day.

“When I’m in the Galloway ring at Ingliston, I’ll be looking for something correct, functional with good balance and feminine if its a cow or a heifer. Character has to shine through and the animal has to be something that catches the eye. I would also like something with big flashy lugs too and good legs.

“In terms of the Lincoln Reds, I want a square, correct, easy-fleshing animal that has to have good legs and correct locomotion. I would like something with the traditional flesh and quality that you would see in cattle in years gone by but still maintaining the modern qualities sought after by breeders,” he explained.

While Stephen has missed out not being brought up on a farm, his experience at a young age from not being brought up on a farm has not stopped Stephen securing a number of honourable title recent years.

“Not being from a farming background was a good thing as I started from a blank canvas at 14 in regards to stockjudging. I was guided by well respected stockmen who knew what they were talking about and the stockjudging programme gives you a confidence you wouldn’t get anywhere else, especially with public speaking,” he said.

“I’m lucky enough to have secured the beef individual title, third in stockmanship programme, won the beef pairs and been part of the Glasgow Herald Trophy team once. I also secured the Young Show Stars team title on behalf of the Charolais society young breeders club in 2014.

“It’s a real honour to be asked to judge the showcase as this is the one event that everyone looks at and it’s even more of an honour to be asked to judge alongside my friends – making the experience even more worthwhile and memorable.

“It’ll be good to get back to interacting with all the breeders and getting back to some sort of normality after the past year, and I am looking forward to judging the best stock the country has to offer!”

Stephen also believes the two breeds have a firm future ahead of them.

“The traditional breeds have made a real comeback in the past few years due to their easy fleshing, lower maintenance and ability to survive in harsher climates, so I have no doubt they have a bright future ahead of them,” he concluded.

Hereford

Abbie Anderson (26)

Abbie Anderson

Abbie Anderson

A mixed animal vet by day and a farmer by night is the role of Abbie Anderson, from Keith.

Born into the farming life, her grandfather, Alex Cant, bought his first Herefords some 50-plus years ago and went on to purchase Charolais in the late 1990s. Abbie’s mum, Audrey, now runs the farm, whilst Abbie works at Seafield Vets, in Keith, where about 50% of that work is based on farm.

“I have always looked up to my mum. She has achieved so much with the cattle, especially the Herefords and to do so with so few cows makes it more impressive to me. It’s not easy to have a show team and good bulls to sell every year and some how she always manages to be there or thereabouts.

“You have to be willing to work hard, even when it feels like nothing is going your way. We’ve all had days when is feels like everything that could go wrong does, but the good days make up for it,” added

Abbie has four Charolais cows in her own Rutherston herd, with her mum managing 10 Hereford cows and 10 Charolais cows under the Panmure prefix on the Arbroath-based farm where she also lends a hand.

“I feel both my breeds have vital roles to play within the industry. Nothing grows like a Charolais and they continue to be one of the most important terminal sires in the country. Herefords are very easy kept and will put on flesh from fresh air!

“In Scotland the Herefords are often overlooked, which is such a shame because they produce great quality meat with lower inputs – traits which are becoming more and more sought after,” she said.

Abbie, who won the National Charolais Stockjudging competition in 2015 and has judged Drymen as well as being a shadow judge at the Stirling Bull Sales for the Charolais breed, said that she will be looking for a Highland Show champion with “a good head and a big set of lugs as well as a good length, a good top and strong bone.”

“I love the camaraderie that there is with everyone, in the morning you are all competing against each other in the show ring and by the afternoon you are all in the bar! I have definitely missed the social aspect of not just the Highland, but all the shows.

“As much as it won’t be the same as usual, I am looking forward to getting back to a show!

“The future of the beef industry is fairly safe with all the young people involved in farming. It’s not easy to deal with the criticism put on the industry, but as long as we continue to produce beef to the standards we do, we can show the public that farmers are not the enemy,” she concluded.

Highland cattle

Dexter Logan (25)

Dexter Logan

Dexter Logan

When it comes to Highland cattle, you’ll struggle to find a more able young breeder than Dexter Logan, who has certainly made a name for himself within the breed over the years – both in the sale and show ring.

Originating from his small 60-acre farm, in Alva, Stirlingshire, Dexter always had a strong passion for the rugged native cattle and believes they are a breed to be reckoned with.

“The Highlander has a great future ahead of it, with native cattle becoming more popular due to their ease of management and low maintenance costs in comparison to the rising expenditure associated with continental cattle. The Highlander is also a suitable breed for out-wintering and can produce a tasty product at the end of the line too,” Dexter commented.

Although he primarily works with Highlanders, he has turned his hand to Galloways more recently and has previously worked with various pedigree and commercial cattle in his time. Currently self-employed, Dexter is working for various farmers throughout the year, helping with general livestock jobs varying from lambing and calving to clipping and preparing beasts for shows and sales.

He can also turn a hand to judging, having previously been asked to judge the Australian National Highland Cattle Show, in 2018, as well as Highlanders at Nairn, Arran, Black Isle, Perth, Mid Argyll and Lorn.

Much like his peers, Dexter has also enjoyed success within the world of stockjudging, having first got involved in the programme at the age of 14.

“I stuck in at it as it was enjoyable, sociable and you met a lot of people and visited a lot of places,” he said.

“In years gone bye, I’ve won the dairy individual, dairy pairs, second overall in the stockmanship programme and have been part of the Glasgow Herald Trophy-winning team in various consecutive years.

“I’ve also secured the beef cattle dressing national title at junior level and won many breed titles at shows, including the national title at Westmorland and champion at the Great Yorkshire Show at the age of 14 with an in-calf Highland heifer.”

He has clear ideas of what he will be looking for in his ideal choice of animal on the day of The Showcase too.

“Structurally, I want a sound and well-fleshed animal with a very breedy head with a well placed set of horns – which is what the breed is recognised for. It has to be correct on it’s legs and be an animal that shows itself off – something I would want to take home and breed with myself,” he explained.

“I’m looking forward to seeing a well presented show of animals in front of me, led by fellow breeders that I haven’t seen since the previous show season. It’s a real honour to have been asked to judge such a recognised event, especially being such a young age and having shared previous success with fellow judges. I’m also hoping for a good dry day for the event!”

Limousin and commercials

John (25) and James Graham (23)

John and James Graham

John and James Graham

Working alongside their mother and father, Lynda and Dougie, on the family farm at Burnbank, Blair Drummond, Stirling, are brothers John and James Graham.

Both have grown up with a love of livestock and currently work at home on a mixed beef and sheep unit which has recently added a herd of dairy cattle. Having experience of Charolais, Limousin, Holstein, Bluefaced Leicesters, Scottish Blackface and Scotch Mules, John has also found a passion for Clydesdale horses to add to their ever-growing list.

Over the years, the pair have enjoyed success both in the show and sale rings and, more notably, have made a name for themselves within the world of stockjudging, with numerous awards under their belts.

John said: “I started stockjudging with YFs when I was 14 because it was something I was always keen on. I think it’s a good thing for later on in life when you are judging shows, that you can justify your placings with reasons and in a way that also comes across well.

“Stockjudging with YFs gives you the skills and mindset for being able to confidently judge livestock and you become experienced in a lot of different breeds – not just the ones that you work with at home,” he commented.

James added: “It’s good to see different breeds of cattle and appreciate other breeds, while being able to notice a good cow and be able to pick it out.”

Some of John’s most notable achievements include winning the prestigious Stockman of the Year title at the Royal Highland Show, in 2015, along with winning the SAYFC beef and sheep individual cups and being part of the winning SAYFC beef and sheep pairs and the coveted Glasgow Herald Trophy.

Based on stock presentation and handling, John also won the Young Limousin Breeders competition at the breed’s National Show in 2016 and the Young Show Stars Challenge in 2016 alongside Thomas Illingworth and Andrew Adam.

James has also found success within SAYFC’s stockjudging programme, having previously clinched the sheep individual title, sheep pairs on two occasions, been part of the SAYFC junior winning team and second and third in Stockman of the Year.

The boys are no stranger to the world of show judging either, with both having previously judged Lorn, Mid Argyll, Dalry, Dalmally, Ballymoney and Kinross, to name but a few.

Commenting on what they will be looking for in an animal at The Showcase, John said: “I would say in terms of a female I’m looking for something that is feminine, functional and flashy. It has to be good in it’s legs with good breed character and style.

“With bulls, I want to see a bit of power, shape and good locomotion. It has to be something that catches my eye, has a good head on it and portrays everything about the breed.”

James added: “A good commercial beast has to be easy fleshed, thick and shapey. It has to be good on its legs and it needs to be flashy – it’s the Royal Highland Showcase, so entries have to have a bit of character about them.

“It’s a privilege to be asked to judge any show, but even more so The Showcase and for John and I to be asked to judge in the same year as brothers is a real honour and a proud moment for the family.”

Commenting on the future of the beef industry within Scotland, John concluded: “We are really looking froward to the big day and being able to witness a great show of quality cattle. In terms of the beef industry, farmers need to ensure they continue to breed something that is sought after in the modern market but remains functional and profitable.”

Salers

Adam Crockett (34)

Adam Crockett

Adam Crockett

Working on the family farm alongside his father, Roy, is Salers judge, Adam Crockett, of the Bacardi herd, at Denholm, Hawick.

After leaving school, Adam worked at various farms before landing himself a stockman’s job at Blelack, for Aberdeen-Angus and Charolais breeder, Graeme Massie, where he worked for a few years. He landed more livestock experience across the water in Ireland, working for a family there before returning home in 2011, when his own family began farming in their own right.

While he and his father, Roy, had previously worked with several breeds over the years, they now rely mostly on breeding pedigree Salers and have 130 Salers and 50 Limousins.

“We changed over to the Salers for the breed’s ease of management. As a commercial cow, the breed can be put to any terminal sire to produce a good calf and one that is easily calved. Calves are quick to their feet, and suckle well with plenty of life about them.

“We both work away from home doing other jobs, so we need to know our cows can be left to calve by themselves and produce a good healthy calf that is up and ‘sooked’ when we get home,” said Adam, who will on average, assist only one or two of the 130 calvers.

“Salers have a strong place in commercial market, there are fewer and fewer people working on farm, so we need cattle that will calve themselves, and not cause more issues than there are already.

Commenting on the type of cattle he will be looking for in the show ring at Ingliston he said: “I am looking for an animal with length, a good head and a well fleshed plate,” said Adam, who has previously judged two shows over in Ireland as well as the inter-breed at Duns in 2019.

A previous exhibitor of the Royal Highland, the Bacardi herd bagged the breed championships on four occasions in 2012, 2013, 2018 and 2019.

“I miss the social aspect of the Royal Highland, catching up with folk and letting others see what cattle you have on parade. It is a great shop window, not only for exhibitors looking at your stock but also commercial farmers watching the judging who will hopefully like what you have on parade which can help sell a bull later in the year,” added Adam.

“This year will no doubt be a bit different, however I am looking forward to it and seeing how it works, and I am especially looking forward to judging the Salers and seeing what stock there is on parade,” concluded Adam.

Simmental

Tom Bruce (27)

Tom Bruce

Tom Bruce

Born and bred on the family farm at Tillyeve, Udny, Ellon, Aberdeenshire, there has always been a strong passion for livestock for Tom Bruce.

The family farm now runs just shy of 40 pure Simmental cows along with their commercial beef herd, however Tom works at AT Wilson and Co, Auchnagatt, who finish their cattle and grow seed potatoes, so there is certainly always something to keep him busy.

“Simmentals are the true dual-purpose breed and because of this are the foundation of a large proportion of the suckler herd in the country. The combination of good mothering abilities and temperament along with high growth rates make it ideal for replacement females and a terminal sire.

“I am looking for a growthy, well-fleshed animal which boasts a strong elegance of style and character,” added Tom, who has judged both the Simmental and Charolais sections at Keith Show.

At the age of just 13, Tom won the ANM Christmas Classic open stockjudging, which has since led to winning the SAYFC stockmanship programme’s coveted beef pairs title twice, he has also won junior and supreme overall in the British Simmental Young Members stockjudging.

“The Highland was a big miss last year and although it’s not going to be the same as what would be my normal show, I am looking forward to seeing the best of the stock in the country coming together again. It’s a great honour to be asked to judge. The show has so much to offer and you can’t beat the craic around the rings and the general show buzz,” he said.

Commenting on the future of the beef industry, Tom said: “With the rise in beef prices this year I have a lot more optimism for the future of Scotch Beef. The prices being achieved in the store ring will help encourage people to keep suckler cows and long may it continue. Carbon audits and marketing ourselves as carbon neutral will be a great challenge going forward.

“If you are keen to get involved in the agriculture industry then keep an open mind and make the most of any opportunities that come your way,” concluded Tom.

Beef Young Handlers

Avril Aitken (41)

Avril Aitken

Avril Aitken

Taking charge of the beef young handers section of the Showcase this year is none other than well-respected cattle woman, Avril Aitken.

‘Bred’ from from three generations of stockmen, she was brought up on farms filled with both pedigree and commercial cattle, so it’s no surprise her heart lies in the cattle ring.

“At a young age I was always keen to go to shows, so I basically grew up showing at local and nationals events, and have been involved in agriculture since the age of four,” she stated.

“Although I have worked with various breeds of cattle in my time, I mainly like working with pedigree Charolais and Limousin.”

Avril enjoys a busy working career with her current occupation as an agricultural officer with the Scottish Government’s Rural Payments department.

“It’s a job that keeps me busy but I like to spend my spare time working with our small herd of Charolais and Limousin cattle at home just outside Perth, which we run under the Lourie prefix,” Avril commented.

During her time in YF, Avril was keen to take part in stockjudging, having previously secured the best beef individual in the SAYFC stockjudging programme.

Furthermore, she enjoys a bit of judging too, having previously selected the winners for the Young Limousin Breed Competition at Red Ladies day at Carlisle.

“I’ve also enjoyed judging various YFs’ cabarets, concerts and talent Spots so I think this has given me an eye for young talent – and hopefully help me on the big day!”

In terms of what she will be looking for, Avril is crystal clear about what the Showcase’s youngsters will need to portray.

“I’m looking for plenty enthusiasm, concentration and attention to detail. These are the main things I’ll be looking for on the day!”

“I’m also looking forward to seeing cattle being back paraded in the showring after a year out and stocks people back in their element, as well as young handlers embracing the experience,” she added.

“It’s an honour to be asked to be a part of this unique showcase event and hopefully the sun will be shining down on Ingliston!”

“I think the future of the show circuit is bright, as so many enjoy the experience of showing off the best stock they have. I just hope that the shows have survived financially and people’s enthusiasm is still there so we can return for a bumper 2022 show season!”