THIS years' AgriScot will feature an entirely new class in the dairy cattle show programme.

The November 21 event will host a new section for ‘Any other Breed’ has been introduced alongside the traditional, Ayrshire, Holstein, Jersey and Red & White classes. The new class, open to both in-milk heifers and cows, aims to attract exhibitors of breeds such as the Brown Swiss, British Friesian and Dairy Shorthorn.

AgriScot chairman, Robert Neill, commented: “Our board of directors, which includes three directors representing the Scottish Dairy Cattle Association, is tremendously proud of the magnificent show of dairy cattle exhibited each year at AgriScot.

“Going forward, we are keen to open up the show classes to encourage exhibitors of other breeds to take part. These breeds may not be numerically strong within the national herd, but nevertheless we believe there are some top-class cattle out there and we look forward to welcoming them along to our show ring.

“Our show schedule is available now, with closing date for entries on October 31.”

Mr Neill also announced this years’ cattle judge as Kevin Wilson from Wood Farm, Thursby, Carlisle.

Mr Wilson said: “I am very much looking forward to judging at AgriScot. I love judging dairy cattle and expect to see some tremendous cows and heifers forward at Ingliston.”

“It will be very interesting to see some of the other breeds coming in to the AgriScot ring. I like a cow, of any breed, which clearly exhibits dairy strength. That for me, above all, means good udder attachment and veins and four good legs and feet. I am sure I will see all of that and more at AgriScot.”