EXHIBITORS of Britain’s native equines are gearing up for the National Stallion Show, which will take place next weekend on Saturday, March 7, 2020.

To be held at the Morris Equestrian Centre, Fenwick, Kilmarnock, for the third time, the event is organised by the Glasgow Agricultural Society. It brings together Scotland’s three native breeds – the Clydesdale, Highland pony and Shetland pony – as well as Mountain and Moorland entries for what is one of the first major shows of 2020.

It’s one of the oldest shows, too, the 159th National Stallion Show welcomes increased entries in both the Shetland pony and Mountain and Moorland sections.

The largest ringside of spectators typically gathers to watch the Clydesdale entry and while the male, female and supreme championships are well sought after, it is the prestigious Cawdor Cup – for the highest placed male – which has not previously won the trophy. That being said, it is the Shetland section which draws the largest entry numbers while the Mountain and Moorland section is increasing in popularity since its re-introduction in 2018.

“I am honoured to chair the National Stallion Show and hope the weekend will welcome more favourable conditions than the show seen in recent years,” said Kendal Young, chairman of the Glasgow Agricultural Society.

“We are delighted to see increased entries in a couple of sections and hope to build on that in the future. As a society, we are very grateful to all our sponsors and of course our exhibitors who show year in year out and keep the show going.”

Donning their judges’ hats in the Clydesdale ring this year will be Ian Anderson, Middlebank Holdings, Errol, who will judge the geldings, the ridden section and young handlers; Neil Christie, Dalaron, Fintry Road, Balfron, who will place the females; and Tom Fountain, Woodhouse Farm, Marston Montgomery, Ashbourne, Derbyshire, who will judge the male entry.

Sharing the Shetland pony duties are Mr and Mrs Rees, Lower Hasguard Farm, Haverfordwest – Bernard Rees placing the standard ponies and Mrs Rosemary Rees the miniatures.

Taking charge of the Highland pony entry is Mrs Jo Jack, Wester Newburn, Leven, Fife, who will also place the Mountain and Moorland classes.

Entries will take to the ring to commence judging and the Glasgow Agricultural Society welcomes all spectators to enjoy the show as well as the restaurant and bar facilities at Morris Equestrian Centre. Admission is £10 for non-members of the GAS while members and children under 12 have free entry, and those travelling by car can enjoy free car parking.