Regular Spring Show sheep winners John Brown and his father, William, Hilton of Culsh, did the double amongst the breeding sheep, taking both the champion and reserve honours.

Judge Jonnie Campbell, Thurso, was full of praise for the quality of sheep on parade and his choice of top two ticket holders. “The champions were the most even matched pen with the best shapes, and coats. They were also feminine looking and good on their legs,” he said, adding that there was little difference between the champion and reserve.

Taking the tri-colour was a pen of three home-bred North Country Cheviots from the Browns who were exhibiting the breed for the first time here having previously led several previous events with Texels. Their exhibits, shown by John, were by a Broomhillbank sire and bred from home-bred ewes from their 130-strong Cheviot flock.

Three-quarter-bred Texel crosses by a Hilton of Culsh sire and out of home-bred Texel cross dams picked up the blue and white sash.

LEADING awards

Pens of three hoggs – Tex X – 1 and 2, W and J Brown, Hilton of Culsh; 3, C and A Webster, Ardhuncart.

GF or Mules – 1, HP Sleigh and Son, St Johns Wells.

Cheviot Mules – 1, HP Sleigh and Son; 2, S Dey, Bogbeth Livestock; 3, A and SJ Forbes, Dalrachie.

Any other native – 1, W and J Brown; 2 and 3, HP Sleigh and Son. Any other cont – 1 and 2, W and J Brown.