Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show Livestock Schedule 2026
19 & 20 AUG 2026
ENTRIES CLOSE: 22nd July 2026
19 & 20 AUG 2026
The Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Society
A Company Limited By Guarantee. Registered in England & Wales No. 4971254
Charity Registration No. 1115942
OFFICERS & COMMITTEE
PRESIDENT
Samuel Braddick OBE
SHOW CHAIRMAN
A. Miller
SHOW SECRETARY
C. Harris
The Show Office, Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 9PL compete@gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk ǀ 01747 823955
ASST. SHOW SECRETARY
L. Cook
CATTLE CHAIRMAN: M. Tuffin
SHEEP CHAIRMAN: M. Blakeney
The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show is affiliated to several different Cattle & Sheep Breed Societies
Any Exhibitor arriving at the Show without the necessary documents as required under current D.E.F.R.A. and other Regulations will be requested to leave immediately. D.E.F.R.A. have issued the Turnpike Showground with an Agricultural Holding Reference Number 11/164/8001. The Grid Reference is ST835 243 and the Post Code is SP7 9PL.
The Organisers of the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show have taken reasonable precautions to ensure the health and safety of everyone present. For these measures to be effective, everyone must take all reasonable precautions to avoid and prevent accidents occurring and must obey the instructions of the Organisers, Show Officials and all Stewards whilst onsite. Before each section the Show has clearly stated the current rules for the Show – please provide your email address on the entry form to ensure the Show Office can keep you updated on changes to the rules ahead of the Show.
TROPHIES WON BY 2025 EXHIBITORS MUST BE RETURNED TO THE SHOW OFFICE BY NO LATER THAN THE 1ST JULY 2026.
COMPETITORS ARE REQUESTED TO READ CAREFULLY THE SHOW CONDITIONS BEFORE MAKING ENTRIES.
NOTE TO EXHIBITORS: Please ensure that you read the livestock schedule thoroughly. It is the exhibitor’s responsibility to ensure they understand which days they are required to be onsite.
The closing date for entries is Wednesday 22nd July 2026. This date will be strictly adhered to, no entries will be accepted after this date.
Simplified choice
Expertly selected
Our expertise and rigorous assessment of both established and new seed varieties enable us to offer you a superior, short-listed selection. We simplify your seed decision process, giving you more time to focus on your farm.
GENERAL SHOW RULES
1. Rules – every exhibitor making entries for the Show shall be deemed to have agreed to abide by these Rules and those set out at the start of the particular section and it is on this condition that entries are accepted.
2. Entries & Fees – all Classes in this Schedule must be entered either online via www.gillinghamandshaftesburyshow. co.uk/compete or on a Show Entry Form (available from our website) and forwarded together with the correct amount of entry fee (No cheques under the value of £20.00 will be accepted, please make cheques payable to ‘Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Society’) to the Show Office, Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 9PL. The closing date is shown on the schedule front cover and entries must be received by first post on that date. The Society reserves the right to refuse any entry. In the event of abandonment or cancellation of the Show, the Society will make refunds of the booking fee at its discretion. The Society will not be liable for any costs incurred by the exhibitor.
3. Judging – No exhibitor shall enter an animal in any class in which the judge may have bred or have an interest in said animal. In the event of a dispute the Society reserves the right to invite an independent judge to place that animal in the class. Tampering to deliberately conceal or otherwise alter an undesirable characteristic of a show animal is not allowed. Animals entered in these classes that are found to have their teats/udders sealed; to be artificially coloured or to have in anyway been faked at any time whilst on the showground shall be disqualified. Any allegation must be communicated to the ring stewards on the day and the section’s chief steward shall be responsible for determining the truth of the allegations and if found to be true, instituting disqualification proceedings (see also Rule 13). JUDGES ARE INSTRUCTED NOT TO AWARD ANY PRIZE OR COMMENDATION TO ANY ANIMAL WHICH CONTRAVENES THE WELFARE REGULATIONS.
4. Ownership & Details – all livestock must be owned by the exhibitor for at least 3 months prior to the closing date for entries. The age of all animals must be correctly given. Should a prize be awarded to any animal, which can be proved to be of a different age to that stated, then such prize shall be awarded to the next best animal. A breeding certificate may be required to prove that an animal is in foal or calf, to the satisfaction of the Stewards & Judge and the prize may be withheld until so proven.
5. Refunds – Refunds of any entry fee will not normally be made after the closing date, however substitutions in classes may at the Shows discretion be accepted up until 10 days before the Show. In the event of cancellation or abandonment of the Show, entry fees may at the discretion of the Society, be refunded but the Society cannot be held liable for other expenses incurred by the exhibitor.
6. Regulations – classes for all livestock are offered subject to any order for prohibition or regulations which may be issued by DEFRA or any other regulatory body.
7. Local classes marked ‘Local’ are open to exhibitors residing within a radius of 25 miles of Turnpike Showground. 8. Parade – see rules in each section.
9. Trophies – will be presented subject to their satisfactory return from the previous winner. Winners of trophies are expected to adequately insure the item, to have them suitable engraved and to ensure their safe return to the Show Office by 1st July 2026.
10. Judges & Stewards – the Section Leader shall appoint the Judges and no person shall be with the Judges whilst executing their office, except the Stewards in charge and such Stewards shall not officiate in a class where they may be exhibiting. In the event of a change of Judge, for whatever reason, the Society will, if time permits, advise those who have entered in the relevant class, of such change.
11. Prizes – If there are no more than three entries in a class, prizes will be awarded at the Judge’s discretion. The Judge/s may withhold any prize for reasons which they may consider sufficient and which they must specify in writing to the Show Secretary. In case the Judges do not agree they may appoint an Umpire whose decision is final. The Show will strictly not give out awards outside these rules. Vouchers of prize money will be handed out with the rosettes after the judging of each class. These vouchers can be exchanged on the day or may be returned alongside the prize winners relevant banking details to the Show Office after the Show and a Bacs transaction will be made. Failure to provide the Show with the relevant bank details within 30 days of the show will result in no payout being made. The Society cannot accept the responsibility for vouchers which are lost or stolen. Prizes valued at £100 or more, and all prize money in Grain & Fodder will be issued via Bacs usually within 30 days of the Show.
12. Objections – an exhibitor wishing to make an objection, shall do so in writing, to the Show Secretary within one hour of the judging or event and such objections shall be accompanied by a deposit of £20 (which shall be forfeited if the objection is judged to be frivolous). All objections will be considered by a panel of no less than three Members of the Society and their decision shall be final. The Society reserves the right to pass details of the objection to the relevant Association or Breed Society.
13. Infringement – Prizes may be withheld should any infringement of the Conditions or Breed Society Rules be discovered and the decision of the Society as to the interpretation of the Schedule, its Conditions, and awards, in all cases shall be final. A report will be sent to the relevant Breed Society.
14. Amalgamation or Withdrawal of Classes – the Society reserves the right to amalgamate or withdraw, prior to the Show, any class or classes advertised in the Schedule, whether on account of insufficient entries or from any cause whatsoever, nor shall they be obliged to give notice of such change to any but the Judge and those who have entered the classes in question.
15. Documentation – Movement Licenses, Passports, MV Certificates and other documentation which DEFRA or other regulatory bodies may require must be available on arrival of the animals at the Show. Any exhibitor not having these to hand will be asked to leave the Showground immediately. The Agricultural Holding Number (CPH) for the Turnpike Showground is 11/164/8001.
16. Accidents – The Society will not be responsible for any loss, illness, damage or accident that may occur to any person, animal, exhibit or property at the Show. It is a condition of entry that exhibitors shall hold the Show harmless and indemnify it against any legal proceedings arising from any such accident. All exhibitors must be covered by their own ‘Public Liability insurance. All accidents must be reported at the Show Secretary’s office.
17. Animal Health – any exhibitor who brings an animal to the Showground suffering from a contagious or infectious disease, shall be responsible for the consequential loss and expenses incurred by the Show and any other exhibitor or exhibits as a result, and in addition shall be liable to pay the Society a fine of £5,000. In any case concerning the health or well-being of an animal, the decision of the Society’s Veterinary Officer shall be final.
18. ANIMAL WELFARE – The Society expects all exhibitors to observe best practice at all times. The Society follows the guidance of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 Section 9 (2). The Society forbids the administration to Show exhibits of tranquilisers or other drugs which may in any way affect the performance of the animals or make it behave in the Show ring in a manner which is not natural. The Society forbids the use of colouring or other preparations to enhance an animal. The Society reserves the right to take any necessary samples, and it will be reported to the Council and dealt with at their discretion. In addition, the matter will be referred to the appropriate Breed Society or Organisation.
19. Behaviour – All animals must be controlled to the satisfaction of the Stewards, who have the power to exclude from the Showground any animal likely in their opinion to cause a danger. Dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times. Dogs are NOT permitted to enter the cattle & sheep areas or the public marquees. If a competitor or anyone connected with a competitor is guilty of using improper behaviour or abusive language towards any animal or person, the Stewards have the authority to order that person to leave the Showground.
20. Information – Whilst the Society makes every effort to ensure that the information given is correct, it cannot be held responsible for errors included in the Schedules and Catalogue. Qualifying Classes are offered in good faith, based on the best information available at the time of going to press.
21. Mobile Phones – The use of mobile phones, iPods or similar devices & the wearing of headphones by exhibitors/riders/leaders is totally banned whilst on route to/from the judging/parade ring and when in the ring. Any contravention will result in immediate elimination from the class.
22. Data Protection Act – Information from entry forms is stored on a computer, but such data will not be passed on to other data banks. The name and address of each exhibitor will be published in full unless otherwise requested.
23. Livestock Rider – Leader – Driver: It is a condition of entry that all stock handlers, especially children, should only lead animals where they have the necessary strength and experience to cope with that animal. Children must always be under the direct supervision of, and where necessary accompanied by, a competent adult.
24. Entry tickets and passes – Tickets and vehicle passes will be dispatched in good time and details of the ratio of tickets to entries can be found at the front of each section. Exhibitor Tickets are required to gain access to the Show. Extra tickets are available at a special rate, if ordered on the entry form:
Admission Charges
Exhibitors ordered with entry
Advance Rate
Show Day
Adult Child (5 – 16yrs)
£18
£20
£23
£2.50
£3
£6
All Vehicle occupants are to have a valid Show Ticket, anyone without a ticket will NOT be permitted entry into the Showground.
MOVEMENT LICENCES, PASSPORTS and any other document which D.E.F.R.A. and other regulatory body require MUST BE AVAILABLE at the time of arrival with the animals. Any Exhibitor not having these to hand will be asked to leave. Trading Standards have asked us to remind all exhibitors that ALL animals will be checked for double tagging, if appropriate.
BLUETONGUE At the time of publication, the restricted zone for bluetongue has been extended to cover all of England. You can now move animals within England without a specific bluetongue licence or pre-movement testing for BTV (TB testing still required). If you are travelling from outside of England please adhere to your country’s rules.
Grand Parade kindly sponsored by
The Grand Parade of Livestock will take place in the Dorset Life Main Ring promptly at 15:15 on both show days. To ensure there is a safe and easy route into the Main Ring for the parade, all Livestock will be gathered in the Cattle Judging Rings before proceeding into the Main Ring. This route into the Main Ring will be sign posted and lined with Stewards to help assist.
We ask for all prize-winning exhibits to partake in the Grand Parade, however even if you have not won a prize, we hope you will join in the Grand Parade.
The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show raises funds for the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Society to help support farming and the countryside. The show defines itself as a proper Agricultural Show, bringing together the industry as a networking event whilst also being a showcase to the region of the finest Livestock and farming practices.
Headline Cattle Sponsor
All cattle must be trained to be halter led and to have a proper halter on at all times. Bulls must have a bulldog / Nose Leader – exhibitors must comply with HSE notes GS36 to ensure that the animal is under proper control, at all times.
Judging commences at 8.30am each day. All breed classes & the Supreme Dairy Championship will take place on Wednesday, followed by Interbreed Pairs, Group of 3’s, Beef Cattle Championships and Young Handler classes all taking place on Thursday.
CATTLE SECTION SHOW CONDITIONS
to be read in conjunction with the General Show Rules at the front of the schedule.
1. Numbers – One number is issued to each animal and should be clearly visible when being judged. A separate number will be issued for pairs and group classes and this number must be used in these classes.
2. Documentation – Passports, movement orders and the like, are to be carried as required by the latest regulations and must be available for inspection when the animals arrive on the Showground. All cattle coming to the Show must have had a pre-movement test with a negative result within 60 days of the “end” of the Show in line with current Defra regulations. A copy of the results must be brought to the Show and presented upon arrival with the animals attending highlighted for ease of identification to avoid delays within the cattle office. Failure to provide these test results, will result in exclusion from the showground. Calves must be under 42 days of age when leaving the showground to be exempt from pre-movement testing.
3. Showing – All cattle must be trained to be halter led and to have a proper halter on at all times. Bulls –exhibitors must comply with HSE notes GS36 to ensure that the animal is under proper control, at all times.
4. Judging - No exhibitor shall enter an animal in any class in which the judge may have bred or have an interest in said animal. In the event of a dispute the Society reserves the right to invite an independent judge to place that animal in the class. Tampering to deliberately conceal or otherwise alter an undesirable characteristic of a show animal is not allowed. Cattle entered in these classes that are found to have their teats /udders sealed; to be artificially coloured or to have in anyway been faked at any time whilst on the showground shall be disqualified. Any allegation must be communicated to the ring stewards on the day and the show’s chief cattle steward shall be responsible for determining the truth of the allegations and if found to be true, instituting disqualification proceedings. JUDGES ARE INSTURCTED NOT TO AWARD ANY PRIZE OR COMMENDATION TO ANY ANIMAL WHICH CONTRAVENES THE WELFARE REGULATIONS
5. Cornish Mutual Grand Parade – Champions, Reserve Champions & First Place exhibits are required to take part in the Cornish Mutual Grand Parade which will be held in the Dorset Life Main Ring at 3.15pm on both show days. Failure to appear will incur the forfeiture of prize money. All exhibitors are required to wear a White Breed Society Coat whilst participating in the Grand Parade.
6. Facilities – A limited supply of straw for bedding will be provided to each exhibitor. Wash down facilities with adequate water supply is available, you are requested NOT to wash down in the cattle lines. Exhibitors are requested to put their dung into the wheelbarrows provided and to tip these into the trailer. A number of power points will be available near the vacuum line for clippers and dryers. All electrical equipment and extension leads must carry a current PAT test label.
7. Milk - A vacuum line kindly supplied by Dairy Maintain Ltd will be provided for you to attach your own milking equipment. Milk produced on the Showground MUST NOT be used for human consumption, it must be removed from the Showground by the exhibitor and disposed of properly.
8. Overnight Accommodation – Overnight covering will be provided to all exhibitors. You must state on your entry form the total number of animals you will be exhibiting to ensure a sufficient quantity of cattle stalls are reserved for you. No gazebos will be permitted within the new cattle housing structure.
9. Veterinary Officers will be on site from 8.00 a.m. each day and can be contacted via the PA box in the Balbithan Cattle Lines or the Show Office. Details of emergency and out of hours numbers will be included within your exhibitor pack. Exhibitors are responsible for any treatment costs incurred.
10. Health – Only Cattle from accredited Brucellosis herds will be accepted for competition at this Show, except Steers in the Commercial Beef Classes. Should an animal calf prematurely or abort whilst on the showground, the animal will be placed into the designated isolation bay & must be returned home immediately. The Society accepts no responsibility for any resulting loss, injury, illness, or associated costs incurred by the exhibitor.
11. ANIMAL WELFARE - The Society expects all exhibitors to observe best practice at all times. The Society follows the guidance of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 Section 9 (2). The Society forbids the administration to Show exhibits of tranquillisers or other drugs which may in any way affect the performance of the animals or making it behave in the Show ring in a manner which is not natural. The Society forbids the use of colouring or other preparations to enhance an animal. The Society reserves the right to take any necessary samples and it will be reported to the Council and dealt with at their discretion. In addition, the matter will be referred to the appropriate Breed Society or Organisation.
12. Substitutions and Transfers – Any Cattle entered as ‘in calf’ and which have calved before the day of the Show, will be transferred to the appropriate ‘in milk’ class and vice-versa, and Cattle may be substituted with the consent of the Chief Cattle Steward or Show Secretary. In all cases the Show Secretary must have full written details before the animals arrive at the Showground.
13. Class Entries – If an exhibitor shall enter an animal in any class in which the judge may have bred or have an interest in said animal, the Society reserves the right to invite an independent judge to place that animal in the class. Except for Young Handler Classes, no animal shall be entered into classes in more than one section. Amalgamation or Withdrawal of Class: any class with no more than two entries may be amalgamated with another suitable class. Class Division: if there are four or more of one breed in a mixed breed class this breed will be judged separately providing at least four entries of other breeds remain to make the class viable. Amalgamation or withdrawal of classes see General Show Rule 14.
14. Arrival time – No livestock exhibits should be delivered to the showground before 5.00pm on the eve of the day before the animal(s) are due to be shown. Livestock deliveries can be made until 8.00pm on the evening before the show. On Showday the gates will open at 6.00am for livestock deliveries. All livestock must arrive via Gate 0.
15. Class Times – All exhibits in the Livestock Section must be in the Show field by 8.00 am on Show Day. Be aware that there are often traffic delays affecting access to the Showground, please allow sufficient time for this.
16. Livestock Transport – Exhibitors should refer to the latest DEFRA regulations regarding movement of livestock. It is an offence to transport any female animal for whom 90% or more of the gestation period has already passed or female animals that have given birth in the previous week. Section stewards have the power to refer any animal presenting as near to calving or recently calved to the onsite veterinary officers for review, and any animal deemed unfit for exhibition or transport will be required to leave the Showground immediately.
17. Livestock Vehicles – All livestock vehicles must be moved into the livestock parking area as soon as they have been unloaded. Vehicles are not to be brought back into the loading compound until their kit is packed up and ready to be loaded, so as not to cause inconvenience or unnecessary delay to other exhibitors. In line with current legislation all livestock transport must be clean, vehicles arriving with excessive external soiling will be turned away at the gate. All vehicles will be parked in the designated livestock transport area, located in the usual place in the next field, at no time should any vehicles be driven through or parked in the cattle penning lines. All vehicles must be on site and parked up by 8.15am, any vehicles arriving after that time will be directed to the public car park. All vehicles parked within the livestock car park must remain in situ until 4pm, no vehicle access with be permitted in or out of this car park between 8:15am and 4pm (unless deemed necessary for the departure of injured/ill stock).
18. Mobile Phones - The use of mobile phones, iPods or similar devices & the wearing of headphones by exhibitors/leaders is totally banned whilst on route to or from the judging/parade ring and when in the ring. Any contravention will result in immediate elimination from the class.
19. Prize Money – Vouchers of prize money will be handed out with the rosettes after the judging of each class. These vouchers can be exchanged on the day or may be returned alongside the prize winners relevant bank details to the Show Office after the Show and a Bacs transaction will be made. Failure to provide The Show with the relevant bank details within 30 days of the show will result in no payout being made. The Society cannot accept the responsibility for vouchers which are lost or stolen. Prizes valued at £100 or more, and all prize money in Grain & Fodder, will be issued via Bacs usually within 30 days of the Show.
20. Animal Handlers – It is a condition of entry that all stock handlers, especially children, should only lead animals where they have the necessary strength and experience to cope with the animal. Children must always be under the direct supervision of, and where necessary accompanied by, a competent adult.
21. Failure to comply with Show Rules and Regulations may result in prize money being withheld.
PRIZES IN ALL CATTLE CLASSES
(a) In classes where 6 or more animals are exhibited, a 4th place rosette will be awarded.
(b) In classes where 8 or more animals are exhibited, a 5th place rosette will be awarded. In classes where ‘Special’ rosettes are issued to young competitors, these are only presented to those who have not received a place rosette. The show will award prizes strictly in conjunction with the General Show Rules, no prizes will be awarded outside of these rules. If a class does not receive sufficient entries, the Show will amalgamate classes – ensure you have included an email address with your entry to receive any updates on amalgamations.
TICKET ISSUE RATIO
1-2 entries
EXTRA TICKETS – In line with the DEFRA policy to restrict access to Livestock Areas whilst cattle classes are in progress, it is important that exhibitors order sufficient tickets to enter these areas.
All vehicle occupants are to have a valid Show Ticket, anyone without a valid ticket will not be permitted entry into the Showground. The Show has a strict no ticket, no entry policy.
Livestock to enter the Showground via Gate 0, please follow the road signs for Gate 0.
The What3Words reference for Gate 0 is: examine.later.downcast.
DOGS are not permitted in the Cattle or Sheep Areas
NOTABLE CHANGES TO THE FORMAT OF CATTLE CLASSES FOR 2026: Following feedback from exhibitors, the Supreme Dairy Championship will now take place on Wednesday afternoon following the completion of all breed classes. Any dairy exhibitors wishing to return home their ‘in milk’ animals will be permitted to do so at the end of day one. All other stock is required to stay onsite for the Thursday show day. Interbreed Group of Three’s, Beef Cattle Championships, Interbreed Dairy Pairs and Young Handler classes will continue to take place on Thursday. A provisional running order is provided below, please note the Society reserves the right to amend this running order at any time.
Provisional Running Order 2026
Wednesday 19th August: Aberdeen Angus, Hereford, Devon Cattle, Limousin, Any Other Continental Beef, Longhorn, Other Indigenous Rare or Minority Breeds, Commercial Beef, Dexters, Holstein and Any Other Dairy Breed classes will start and run simultaneously in separate rings with separate judges from 8:30am. Supreme Dairy Championship will take place following the completion of all breed classes.
Thursday 20th August: Interbreed Pairs, Interbreed Group of Three’s, Beef Championships and Young Handler classes will run consecutively commencing from 9:00am.
All cattle must be trained to be halter led and to have a proper halter on at all times. Bulls must have a Bulldog/ Nose Leader – exhibitors must comply with HSE notes GS36 to ensure that the animal is under proper control, at all times.
An animal should be entered in only ONE class, except pairs & groups. Calves may also be entered in Young Handler and Young Farmers Club Classes. Any Young Farmer leading in Open Classes must wear their Young Farmers Number as well as their class number.
Headline Cattle Sponsor
Classes to be held on WEDNESDAY 19TH AUGUST 2026
These classes will start PROMPTLY at 8:30am in the Barber’s Farmhouse Cattle Judging Rings. All breed classes will run simultaneously in different rings.
President’s prize stall awarded to the best kept stall, presentation on both show days.
ABERDEEN ANGUS
Championship results recorded as Class 107. The Barclays Bank Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup Presented by the Sturminster Newton Fatstock Society for the best exhibit in classes 100 -105.
Judge: Mr G Summerhayes, Tiverton
101 COW – in milk or in calf, born before 2024
CLASS 102 HEIFER – in milk or in calf, born in 2024
HEREFORD
Championship results recorded as Class 116. The Lamb Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup Presented by R. Lamb, Esq. for the best exhibit in classes 109-115.
The South-West of England Hereford Association offers: A Rosette for the Champion Hereford and Certificate for the herdsman showing the best Hereford animal.
Judge: Ms A Pasco-old, Wadebridge ENTRY FEE: £15.00 per class
CLASS 109 CALF - born in 2026
CLASS 110 COW – in milk or in calf, born before 2024
CLASS 111 HEIFER – in milk or in calf, born in 2024
CLASS 112 HEIFER – born in 2025
CLASS 113 BULL – born on or before 31st December 2024
CLASS 114 BULL – born on or after 1st January 2025
£30 £20 Kindly sponsored by: Les Gould
CLASS 115 PAIR OF ANIMALS – owned by exhibitor
DEVON CATTLE (‘RED RUBY’)
Championship results recorded as Class 125.
The Devon Cattle Breeders Society will award the Howell Manor (East) Cup to the exhibitor gaining the most points from the following Shows: - Dunster, Mid Devon, Dorset County, Honiton, Gillingham & Shaftesbury, Melplash, Frome and North Somerset. Points are awarded as follows – (one point per entry – cow & calf = 1point), First prize 5 points, Second prize = 4 points, Third prize = 3 points. Where a pair or group class is scheduled as a specific class then points will be awarded for these
Judge: Mr G. Summerhayes, Tiverton
CLASS 118
- born in 2026
CLASS 119 COW – in milk or in calf, born before 2024
CLASS 120 HEIFER – in milk or in calf, born in 2024
CLASS 121 HEIFER – born in 2025
CLASS 122 BULL – born on or before 31st December 2024 £40 £30 £20
CLASS 123 BULL – born on or after 1st January 2025 £40 £30 £20
CLASS 124 PAIR OF ANIMALS – owned by exhibitor
LIMOUSIN
Championship results recorded as Class 134. The Gilbert & Eva Jeanes Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup Presented to the best exhibit in classes 127-132.
Judge: Ms M Cormack, Leominster
FEE: £15.00 per class
CLASS 127 CALF - born in 2026
CLASS 128 COW – in milk or in calf, born before 2024
CLASS 129 HEIFER – in milk or in calf, born in 2024
CLASS 130 HEIFER – born in 2025
Kindly sponsored by: Savills
CLASS 131 BULL – born on or before 31st December 2024
CLASS 132 BULL – born on or after 1st January 2025
CLASS 133 PAIR OF ANIMALS – owned by exhibitor
ANY OTHER CONTINENTAL BEEF BREEDS
(Including: Simmentals, British Blues, Blondes & Charolais)
Championship results recorded as Class 152.
Classes for Pure Bred Animals of Continental extraction, excluding Limousin. The breed of each animal must be stated on the Entry Form.
The Jim Ferguson Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup Presented by Friars Moors Veterinary Clinic for the best exhibit in classes 145 -151.
Judge: Mr A Curry, Felton
CLASS 145 CALF - born in 2026
CLASS 146 COW – in milk or in calf, born before 2024
CLASS 147 HEIFER – in milk or in calf, born in 2024
CLASS 148 HEIFER – born in 2025
CLASS 149 BULL – born on or before 31st December 2024
CLASS 150 BULL – born on or after 1st January 2025 £40 £30 £20
CLASS 151 PAIR OF ANIMALS – owned by exhibitor £40 £30 £20
LONGHORN CATTLE
Championship results recorded as Class 160.
Judge: Mr G Walker, York ENTRY FEE: £15.00 per class
CLASS 154 CALF - born in 2026
CLASS 155 COW – in milk or in calf, born before 2024
CLASS 156 HEIFER – in milk or in calf, born in 2024
CLASS 157 HEIFER – born in 2025
CLASS 158 BULL – any age
CLASS 159 PAIR OF ANIMALS – owned by exhibitor
OTHER INDIGINOUS, RARE & MINORITY BREEDS
(Including: South Devons)
Championship results recorded as Class 168.
The Gillingham Perpetual Challenge Trophy
Presented by the Mayor and Town Council of Gillingham for the best exhibit in classes 162-166.
The Shepton Perpetual Challenge Trophy
Kindly presented by Mr & Mrs Robert Dimond for the best South Devon exhibit.
Classes 162– 167 may be split if sufficient entries of any particular breed –see rule 13 of the Cattle Section Show Conditions.
Judge: Mr G Walker, York
FEE: £15.00 per class
162 CALF - born in 2026
CLASS 163 COW – in milk or in calf, born before 2024
CLASS 164 HEIFER – in milk or in calf, born in 2024
CLASS 165 HEIFER – born in 2025
COMMERCIAL BEEF CATTLE
Championship results recorded as Class 172.
The Orledge Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup
Presented by Messrs. Orledge & Sons Ltd. for the best exhibit in classes 170-171.
Judge: L Calcraft, Honiton
To be judged as butchers’ animals suitable for today’s trade.
All animals are to be halter trained and will be led and judged in the ring.
CLASS 170 BUTCHERS’ STEER – of any beef breed or cross
Kindly sponsored by: Else’s Family Butchers
CLASS 171 BUTCHERS’ HEIFER – of any beef breed or cross £40 £30 £20
Kindly Sponsored by: For Farmers
Entries in classes 170 & 171 must be over six months of age and will be required to be led for judging. The appearance of the first prize winners will be warmly welcomed in the Grand Parade later in the afternoon at their owners’ discretion.
DEXTERS
Championship results recorded as Class 182.
The Knightsway Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup for the Champion Female Presented by the Knightsway Herd of Pedigree Dexter Cattle.
The Rowden Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup for the Champion Male Presented in memory of Malcolm Rowden. Every animal must be fully registered with the Dexter Cattle Society. The Society will award to the Champion.
Judge: Mr D Tumelty, County Down (Northern Ireland) ENTRY
per class
CLASS 174 CALF - born in 2026
CLASS 175 HEIFER – born in 2024
CLASS 176 HEIFER – born in 2025, not having calved
CLASS 177 COW OR HEIFER – in calf
CLASS 178 COW OR HEIFER – in milk
CLASS 179 BULL – under 30 months old on showday
CLASS 180 BULL – 30 months or older
CLASS 181 PAIR OF FEMALES – any age, one of the animals
exhibited must be entered in another class
MOVEMENT LICENCES, ACCREDITATION CERTIFICATES, PASSPORTS and any other document which DEFRA and other regulatory body require MUST BE AVAILABLE at the time of arrival with the animals. Current requirements regarding ear tags must be complied with in full. Any exhibitor not having these to hand will be asked to leave.
HOLSTEIN
Championship results recorded as Class 192.
Animals registered in The Holstein U.K Herd Book or in Classes B or C of the Supplementary Register are eligible. Holstein UK offer rosettes for Champion, Reserve Champion, Junior Champion, Best Exhibitor Bred and Best Udder in Show.
The Holbuts Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup
Presented by the late A.G.M Stevens, ESQ., for the Best Exhibit in classes 184-189.
The Fernbrook Perpetual Premier Exhibitor’s Cup
Presented for the Exhibitor gaining the most points in classes 184-189.
(1st place = 4pts, 2nd place = 3pts, 3rd place = 2pts, 4th place = 1pt)
Judge: Mr R Jones, Llamelli (Wales)
CLASS 184 COW – in calf, due to calve before 30th October in the current year
CLASS 185 HEIFER – aged 12 months old but under 18 months old
CLASS 186 HEIFER – under 36 months old, in calf
Kindly sponsored by: Chew in the Cud
CLASS 187 HEIFER – in milk to first calving, not more than 36 months old at date of calving
Kindly sponsored by: National Milk Records Limited
CLASS 188 COW – in milk
CLASS 189 PAIR OF FEMALES – any age
CLASS 190 CALF – under 12 months old on Showday (will spilt at 6 months
if sufficient entries) Kindly sponsored by: MSD Animal Health
CLASS 191 BEST UDDER – best udder in show, any age
Kindly sponsored by Dairy Maintain Ltd
ANY OTHER DAIRY BREED
Championship results recorded as Class 202. The Blandford Matthews Perpetual Challenge Trophy Presented to the Best Jersey Animal in classes 195-201.
The Stephenson Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup Presented by Messrs. W.L. Stephenson & Son for the Best Guernsey Animal in classes 195-201. The Cherrington Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup Presented to the Best Ayrshire Animal in classes 195-201.
Judge: Mr R Cornish, Wellington
CLASS 195 COW – in calf, due to calve before 30th October in the current year
CLASS 196 HEIFER – aged 12 months old but under 18 months old
CLASS 197 HEIFER – under 36 months old, in calf
Kindly sponsored by: Duffields
CLASS 198 HEIFER – in milk to first calving, not more than 36 months old at date of calving
CLASS 199 COW – in milk
CLASS 200 PAIR OF FEMALES – any age Kindly sponsored by: New Forest Shortbread
CLASS 201 CALF – under 12 months old on Showday (will spilt at 6 months
if sufficient entries) Kindly sponsored by: Wyvern Farm Vets
SUPREME DAIRY CATTLE CHAMPIONSHIP
The Trevor Trim Memorial Dairy Championship Perpetual Challenge
Very kindly presented by his family, to be awarded to the SUPREME DAIRY CHAMPION of the Show (Class 203) together with a Sash of Honour and a Sash of Honour to the Reserve Champion.
Judge: Mr R Jones, Llanelli & Mr R Cornish, Wellington
PRIZES Champion Reserve
CLASS 203 SUPREME DAIRY CHAMPIONSHIP – Judged from the £100 £50 Champions & Reserve Champions of the Holsteins & Any Other Dairy Breed classes.
Milking Machinery Very Kindly Contributed by:
CLASSES TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 20TH AUGUST 2026
These classes will start PROMPTLY at 9am in the Barber’s Farmhouse Cattle Judging Rings. President’s prize stall awarded to the best kept stall, presentation on both show days.
INTERBREED GROUP OF THREE
Beef Judge: Mr G Tulley, Brixham
Dairy Judge: Mr O Reed, Cullompton
ENTRY FEE: £15.00 per class PRIZES 1st 2nd 3rd
CLASS 205 BEEF GROUP OF THREE – any age, must be owned by exhibitor. £50 £35 £25
CLASS 206 DAIRY GROUP OF THREE – any age, must be owned by exhibitor. £50 £35 £25
Kindly sponsored by: Synergy Farm Health
YOUNG HANDLER CLASSES
HEALTH & SAFETY WARNING: Children must be experienced leaders and be familiar and confident handling their animal. Stewards have total discretion to ban an entry or order withdrawal if they consider it unsafe to proceed. Children must always be under the direct supervision of, and where necessary accompanied by, a competent adult whilst handling their animal.
PLEASE NOTE: These classes will start PROMPT at 9:30am in the Barber’s Farmhouse Cattle Judging Rings and all classes will run simultaneously in different rings. To ensure these classes run in a timely manner each child must have their own animal.
BEEF YOUNG HANDLER
The Wilson Perpetual Championship Challenge Shield Young Beef Champion (class 211)
The Sid Perry Perpetual Challenge Shield Class 208
The G&S Show Perpetual Challenge Trophy Class 209
The Show Perpetual Challenge Trophy Class 210
The South Western Limousin Cattle Breeders’ Club award to the Beef Young Handlers (All Breeds): Overall Champion - Sash and Rosette; Reserve Overall Champion – Rosette; Rosettes for all age groups and participants.
JUDGE: Miss R Hurd, Taunton
YOUNG CHAMPION JUDGE: Mr G Tulley, Brixham
Classes 208- 210: To exhibit a heifer, steer or bull calf, of any age from a recognized beef breed or cross breed.
ENTRY FEE: Free
Leader to be under 13 years of age on Show Day.
209 YOUNG HANDLER BEEF CATTLE –
Leader to be of 13 years of age but under 17 years of age on Show Day CLASS 210 YOUNG HANDLER BEEF CATTLE –
Leader to be of 17 years of age but not more than 21 years old on Show Day
Special rosettes will be awarded to all exhibitors who do not receive a place rosette. CHAMPIONSHIP of Young Handler Beef recorded as class 211.
DAIRY YOUNG HANDLER
The Sandroyd Perpetual Challenge Trophy Young Dairy Champion (Class 217) The Tucker Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup Class 214
The Scott Perpetual Challenge Trophy Class 215
The G & S Perpetual Challenge Trophy Class 216
JUDGE: Mr O Reed, Cullompton
YOUNG CHAMPION JUDGE: Mr O Reed, Cullompton
Classes 214 – 216: To exhibit a heifer calf, of any age from a recognized dairy breed or cross breed. ENTRY FEE: Free
CLASS 214 YOUNG HANDLER DAIRY CATTLE –
Leader to be under 13 years of age on Show Day.
CLASS 215 YOUNG HANDLER DAIRY CATTLE –
Leader to be of 13 years of age but under 17 years of age on Show Day
CLASS 216 YOUNG HANDLER DAIRY CATTLE –
Leader to be of 17 years of age but not more than 21 years old on Show Day
Special rosettes will be awarded to all exhibitors who do not receive a place rosette.
CHAMPIONSHIP of Young Handler Dairy recorded as class 217.
ENTRY FEE: Free
THE KEITH HOSKINS AWARD
The Keith Hoskins Memorial Shield Trophy presented in memory of the late Keith Hoskins will be presented to the YFC member gaining most points in all Cattle classes.
CLASS 218 YFC EXHIBITORS - Points will be awarded to any exhibitor or handler who is currently a member of a Young Farmers Club (Aged 28 and under), who has registered an entry in this class. Points are awarded according to the placing of the animal which is being led in any appropriate class – see Show Rules regarding age and ability of handler.
INTERBREED CALF
Beef Judge: Mr G Tulley, Brixham
Dairy Judge: Mr O Reed, Cullompton
ENTRY FEE: £15.00 per class
CLASS 219 BEEF CALF – any beef breed, under 12 months old on
Showday (will spilt at 6 months if sufficient entries forward)
CLASS 220 DAIRY CALF – any dairy breed, under 12 months old on
Showday (will spilt at 6 months if sufficient entries forward)
INTERBREED DAIRY PAIRS CHAMPIONSHIP
The Henry Doggrell Memorial Perpetual Challenge Shield
Very kindly presented by his family, to be awarded to the overall winner of the pairs Championship (Class 225).
Judge: Mr O Reed, Cullumpton
CLASS 223 INTERBREED DAIRY PAIRS CHAMPIONSHIP –
Judged from the cattle entered into classes 189 & 200.
PRIZES Champion Reserve
£50 £35
BEEF CATTLE CHAMPIONSHIP
The Nitrovit Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup
Will be awarded to the SUPREME BEEF CHAMPION of the Show (Class 228) together will a Sash of Honour and a Sash of Honour to the Reserve Champion.
The Sturminster Newton Market Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup
Presented by the Sturminster Newton Fatstock Society to the winner of the pairs Championship (Class 225).
Judge: Mr G Tulley, Brixham
CLASS 225 CONTINENTAL BREEDS CHAMPIONSHIP – Judged from the Champions & Reserve Champions of the Limousin, & Any Other Continental Breed Classes.
CLASS 226 NATIVE BREEDS CHAMPIONSHIP – Judged from the Champions & Reserve Champions of the Aberdeen Angus, Hereford, Devon, Dexter, Longhorn, Rare & Minority Classes.
CLASS 227 INTERBREED BEEF PAIRS CHAMPIONSHIP – Judged from the
CLASS 228 SUPREME BEEF CHAMPIONSHIP – Judged from the winners £100 £50 of classes 225 & 226.
GRAIN & FODDER
Staged within the Grain & Fodder Blackmore Pavillion Marquee
Entries in this section close at 9am on Wednesday 19th August 2026. This date and time will be strictly adhered to. Judging will take place promptly at 9:30am on Wednesday 19th August. Pre-entry online is preferrable but not essential. Entries can be made simply by visiting the showground with your exhibit prior to the closing date and time shown above.
To make entries online please visit www.gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk/compete
All exhibits are to be staged before 8pm on Tuesday 18th August or before 9am on Wednesday 19th August. It is recommended that exhibits are delivered to the marquee on the Tuesday before the Show before 8.00pm. On Show Day exhibits must be delivered before 9.00am. PLEASE NOTE: no vehicles will be permitted to enter the showground after 8.00am on Show Days.
All exhibits strictly to have been grown by the exhibitor on their own farm during 2026. Exhibit samples to be 1kg per each entry unless stated otherwise, and all varieties must be named.
GRAIN
The Pitman Wheat Cup
Presented by Mr & Mrs V. Pitman for the Best Wheat Exhibit (recorded as Class 256)
The Blandford & Webb Barley Perpetual Cup
Presented to the Best Barley Exhibit (recorded as Class 257)
Judge: Mr John Harper of Agrii
Please note in all classes the variety must be named.
Grain Classes Kindly Sponsored by:
FODDER
The Dave Barter Memorial Challenge Trophy Presented by his friends and family for the Best Silage Entry (recorded as Class 267)
Judge: Mr Peter Cade of For Farmers
Fodder Classes Kindly Sponsored by:
Headline Sheep Sponsor
SHEEP
Young Handler Judging commences at 8.30am
Sheep Breed Judging commences following on from Young Handlers at approximately 9.00am.
Sheep Section Show Conditions to be read in conjunction with the General Show Rules included at the start of the Livestock Schedule
Judging commences at 8.30am each day with Young Handler Classes. Judging of Breed Classes will follow on from the completion of Young Handlers classes at approximately 9.00am.
Sheep Section Show Conditions to be read in conjunction with the General Show Rules included at the start of the Livestock Schedule
1. Numbers – One number will be issued to each animal or pair of animals and must be clearly visible during judging. A separate number will be issued for each entry in the Group of Three section and only this number should be visible in these classes. The Show Numbers will be printed on small card, and we ask all exhibitors to clip these to their top pockets where they will be clearly visible.
2. Class Entries – Except for Young Handler Classes, no animal shall be entered into classes in more than one section. Where a breed class is offered exhibits of that breed will only be accepted to those breed classes and will not be entered in a multi breed section.
3. Class Division, Amalgamation or Withdrawal of Class: any class with no more than two entries may be amalgamated with another suitable class. Class Division: if there are four or more of one breed in a mixed breed class this breed will be judged separately providing at least four entries of other breeds remain to make the class viable. Amalgamation or withdrawal of classes see General Show Rule 14.
4. Accreditation – Separate penning and judging rings are provided for MV and non MV sheep, and their status must be recorded on the entry form with a copy of the MV certificate included with the entry.
5. Documentation – Please ensure that SAC MV Certificates are available on arrival. Please hand certificate/s together with AML 1 Movement Licenses, both entry & exit, to the Sheep Control Team located within the Sheep Admin Office to be signed. Show numbers can be collected at the same time with any other documentation as required by the latest regulations.
6. Arrival Times: No livestock exhibits should be delivered to the showground before 5.00pm on the eve of the day before the animal(s) are due to be shown. Livestock deliveries can be made until 8.00pm on the evening before the show. On Showday the gates will open at 6.00am for livestock deliveries. All livestock must arrive via Gate 0.
7. Class Times – Exhibits in the Livestock Section must be in the Show Field by 8.00 a.m. on the day of the Show. Young Handler classes commence at 8.30am sharp with all three classes being judged at the same time. Be aware that there are often traffic delays affecting access to the Showground.
8. Showing – All classes will be judged halter led (exception given to Butchers Lambs), please ensure that a proper halter is used. Sheep may be trimmed or untrimmed (freestyle) unless otherwise indicated. No exhibitor shall enter an animal in any class in which the judge may have bred or have an interest in said animal. In the event of a dispute the Society reserves the right to invite an independent judge to place that animal in the class. Tampering to deliberately conceal or otherwise alter an undesirable characteristic of a show animal is not allowed. Sheep entered in these classes that are found to be artificially coloured* or to have in anyway been faked at any time whilst on the showground shall be disqualified. Any allegation must be communicated to the ring stewards on the day and the show’s chief Sheep steward shall be responsible for determining the truth of the allegations and if found to be true, instituting disqualification proceedings. JUDGES ARE INSTRUCTED NOT TO AWARD ANY PRIZE OR COMMENDATION TO ANY ANIMAL WHICH CONTRAVENES THE WELFARE REGULATIONS *Colouring – the Society will be guided by the rules of the appropriate breed society.
9. Mobile Phones: The use of mobile phones, iPods and similar devices & the wearing of headphones by exhibitors/leaders is totally banned whilst on route to or from the judging/parade ring and when in the ring. Any contravention will result in immediate elimination from the class.
22. Grand Parade – All Breed & Section Champions and Reserve Champions are required to take part in the Cornish Mutual Grand Parade of Livestock which will take place in the Dorset Life Main Ring at 3.15pm each day. Winners are only required to appear in the Grand Parade on their scheduled show day. Failure to appear will incur a forfeiture of prize money. All exhibitors are required to wear a White Breed Society Coat whilst participating in the Grand Parade.
10. Overnight Accommodation – A limited number of covered overnight penning will be provided, with the sheep remaining in these pens during Show Day. This will be available to exhibitors from outside of a 30-mile radius and pens MUST be booked in advance via the entry from.
11. Layout: The avenues between the rows of pens must be kept clear of obstructions. The majority of pens are constructed with 6’ hurdles, if an exhibitor wishes to bring a gazebo or similar structure it must be erected within a spare pen or on the end of a row of pen if there is sufficient space.
12. Animal Health - See Rule 17 of The General Show Rules listed within the Livestock Schedule. It is recommended that sheep are treated for Scab a fortnight before the Show. Tail Docking: Under the Mutilations (Permitted Procedures) (England) Regulations 2007, enough of the tail must be retained to cover the vulva of female animals and the anus of male animals. Sheep may be inspected on arrival or at any point during their time on the showground by Veterinary Officers or Animal Health authorities. Any sheep found to be in breach of welfare legislation may face further action and will not be permitted to be shown.
13. ANIMAL WELFARE – The Society expects all exhibitors to observe best practice at all times. The Society follows the guidance of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 Section 9 (2). The Society forbids the administration to Show exhibits of tranquilisers or other drugs which may in any way affect the performance of the animals or make it behave in the Show ring in a manner which is not natural. The Society forbids the use of colouring or other preparations to enhance an animal. The Society reserves the right to take any necessary samples, and it will be reported to the Council and dealt with at their discretion. In addition, the matter will be referred to the appropriate Breed Society or Organisation.
14. Prize Money – Vouchers of prize money will be handed out with the rosettes after the judging of each class. These vouchers can be exchanged on the day or may be returned alongside the prize winners relevant banking details to the Show Office after the Show and a Bacs transaction will be made. Failure to provide the Show with the relevant bank details within 30 days of the show will result in no payout being made. The Society cannot accept the responsibility for vouchers which are lost or stolen. Prizes valued at £100 or more, and all prize money in Grain & Fodder, will be issued via Bacs usually within 30 days of the Show.
15. Livestock Transport – Exhibitors should refer to the latest DEFRA regulations regarding the movement of livestock.
16. Livestock Vehicles – All livestock vehicles must be moved into the livestock parking area as soon as they have been unloaded. Vehicles are not to be brought back into the loading compound until their kit is packed up and ready to be loaded, so as not to cause inconvenience or unnecessary delay to other exhibitors. In line with current legislation all livestock transport must be clean, vehicles arriving with excessive external soiling will be turned away at the gate. All vehicles will be parked in the designated livestock transport area, located in the usual place in the next field. All vehicles must be on site and parked up by 8.15am, any vehicles arriving after that time will be directed to the public car park. All vehicles parked within the livestock car park must remain in situ until 4pm, no vehicle access with be permitted in or out of this car park between 8:15am and 4pm (unless deemed necessary for the departure of injured/ill stock).
17. Veterinary Officers will be on site from 8.00am each day and can be contacted via the PA Box in the Sheep Section or by reporting to the Show Office. Details of emergency and out of hours numbers will be issued within your exhibitor pack. Exhibitors are responsible for any treatment costs incurred.
18. Animal Handlers – It is a condition of entry that all stock handlers, especially children, should only lead animals where they have the necessary strength and experience to cope with that animal. Children must always be under the direct supervision of, and where necessary accompanied by, a competent adult.
19. Entry & Pen Fees: Each class has an entry fee of £5 per entry. The fee for each pen booked will be £4. Every exhibitor will be allowed one pen free of charge, without a gate for the storage of kit. There are a few undercover pens, these will be at charged at £12 per pen and allocated on a first come first served basis. Fresh Pens will be reserved for Thursday Entries.
20. Failure to comply with Show Rules & Regulations may result in prize money being withheld.
PRIZES IN ALL SHEEP CLASSES
A 4th place Rosette & Prize will be awarded in classes of 6 or more exhibits forward with prize money of £7.
A 5th place Rosette will be awarded in classes of 8 or more exhibits forward
A 6th place Rosette will be awarded in classes of 10 or more exhibits forward
In classes where ‘Special’ rosettes are issued to young competitors, these are only presented to those who have not received a place rosette.
If classes are not well supported, the Show will amalgamate classes. Please ensure you include an email address on your entry form, so you are informed of any amalgamations.
TICKET ISSUE RATIO
1-4 Entries 5-8 Entries 9+ Entries
2 Tickets
1 Vehicle
3 Tickets 4 Tickets
1 Vehicle
2 Vehicles
EXTRA TICKETS – In line with the DEFRA policy to restrict entry to Livestock Areas whilst classes are in progress, it is important that exhibitors order sufficient tickets.
All vehicle occupants are to have a valid Show Ticket, anyone without a valid ticket will not be permitted entry into the Showground. The Show has a strict no ticket, no entry policy.
All livestock must enter the Showground via Gate 0, please follow the road signs for Gate 0.
The What3Words reference for Gate 0 is: examine.later.downcast.
MOVEMENT LICENCES, ACCREDITATION CERTIFICATES, PASSPORTS and any other document which DEFRA and other regulatory body require MUST BE AVAILABLE at the time of arrival with the animals. Current requirements regarding ear tags must be complied with in full – all animals will be checked for double tagging where appropriate. Any exhibitor not having these to hand will be asked to leave.
SHEEP CLASSIFICATIONS
To avoid sheep of the same breed being exhibited in different sections and to ensure that there are sufficient sheep in each class, exhibitors are requested to follow the guidance given below when entering sheep. Where a particular breed has not been classified the organizers reserve the right to enter it in the most suitable section. We have taken guidance from the information issued by the R.B.S.T. but reserve the right to classify animals as detailed below.
BREED
Badgerface Texel
Balwen
Beltex
Black Welsh Mountain
Blue Faced Leicester
Blue Texel
Border Leicester
Boreray
Castlemilk Moorit
Charollais
Clun Forest
Coloured Ryeland
Cotswold
Dutch Spotted
Dorper
Dorset Down
Dorset Horn
Galway
Grayface Dartmoor
Hampshire Down
Hebridean
Herdwick
Hill Radnor
Jacob
Kerry Hill
Leicester Longwool
Llannwenog
Lleyn
Manx Loghtan
North Ronaldsay
Oxford Down
Poll Dorset
Portland Ryeland
Shetland
Soay
Southdown
Suffolk
Teeswater
Texel
Valais Blacknose
Wensleydale
Wiltshire Horn
Zwartbles
SECTION
Any Other Continental
Hill Heath & Mountain
Any Other Continental
Black Welsh Mountain
Native Longwool
Any Other Continental
Native Longwool
Any Other Native
Any Other Native
Charollais
Hill, Heath & Mountain
Native Shortwool
Native Longwool
Dutch Spotted
Any Other Continental
Dorset Down
Dorset Horn & Poll Dorset
Native Longwool
Greyface Dartmoor
Hampshire Down
Any Other Native
Hill Heath & Mountain
Hill Heath & Mountain
Hill Heath & Mountain
Hill Heath & Mountain
Native Longwool
Hill Heath & Mountain
Any Other Commercial
Any Other Native
Any Other Native
Native Shortwool
Dorset Horn & Poll Dorset
Any Other Native
Native Shortwool
Shetland
Any Other Native
Native Shortwool
Suffolk
Native Longwool
Texel
Any Other Continental
Native Longwool
Hill Heath & Mountain
Zwartbles
Championship Section Wool Section
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Commercial
Commercial
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Commercial
Minority & Traditional
Minority & Traditional
Commercial
Natural Coloured
Natural Coloured
Medium
Natural Coloured
Lustre
Medium
Lustre
Natural Coloured
Natural Coloured
Medium Fine
Fine/Natural Coloured
Lustre
Natural Coloured
Shortwool
Fine
Fine
Lustre
Lustre Fine
Natural Coloured
Natural Coloured
Natural Coloured
Natural Coloured
Shortwool
Lustre
Medium
Medium
Natural Coloured
Natural Coloured
Fine
Fine
Natural Coloured
Fine
Natural Coloured
Natural Coloured
Fine Fine
Lustre
Medium
Lustre
Lustre
N/A
Natural Coloured
DOGS are NOT permitted in the Cattle & Sheep Areas
Classes to be held on WEDNESDAY 19TH AUGUST 2026
YOUNG HANDLER - SHEEP
Kindly sponsored by Wooley & Wallis
HEALTH & SAFETY WARNING: Children must be experienced leaders and be familiar and confident handling their animal. Stewards have total discretion to ban an entry or order withdrawal if they consider it unsafe to proceed. Children must always be under the direct supervision of, and where necessary accompanied by, a competent adult.
PLEASE NOTE: These classes will start PROMPT at 8.30am in the Friars Moor Livestock Health Sheep Judging Rings. All classes will run simultaneously in different rings. To ensure these classes run in a timely manner each child must have their own animal.
The Emma Blakeney Memorial Cup Presented by the family of the late Emma Blakeney to the Young Handler Commercial Champion of the Show (Class 304).
JUDGES: Miss R Hurd, Wiveliscombe; Miss Z Blackmore, Cullumpton; Mr A Brown, Templecombe; Mr R Hole, Sherborne Classes 300 – 303: Handlers to exhibit a sheep of any breed, age or sex. The class will be judged on presentation and handling ability, the animal not to be judged.
ENTRY FEE: Free
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
Handler to be 6 years & under on Show Day CLASS 301 YOUNG HANDLER –
Handler to be 8 years & under on Show Day
Handler to be 12 years & under on Show Day CLASS
Handler to be 16 years & under on Show Day
CHAMPIONSHIP of Young Handler Sheep recorded as class 304.
COMMERCIAL SHEEP
DORSET HORN & POLL DORSET
Championship results recorded as Class 311.
The Christopher Hill Perpetual Challenge Cup Presented by the Sturminster Newton Fatstock Society for the best animal in classes 306 - 310.
The Toni & David Parkes Perpetual Challenge Salvers
These Salvers will be presented for the Best Ram and the Best Ewe in these classes 306 – 310. All sheep over 12 months old must be shown on or after 1st February.
Judge: Mr R Hole, Sherborne
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
CLASS
LAMB Kindly sponsored by: Battens Solicitors
CLASS 310 GROUP OF THREE – one of the opposite sex
These Dorset Horn & Poll Dorset classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks
SUFFOLK
Championship results recorded as Class 318. The Midland Bank Perpetual Challenge Cup Presented by the Sturminster Newton Fatstock Society for the best animal in classes 313 – 317. The Suffolk Sheep Society offers a ‘Best Exhibit’ Rosette for the best Suffolk from a registered flock.
Judge: Mr A Brown, Templecombe
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN
These Suffolk classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class PEN
HAMPSHIRE DOWNS
Championship results recorded as Class 325.
Judge: Mr A Brown, Templecombe
These Hampshire Downs classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks
CHAROLLAIS
Championship results recorded as Class 332.
Judge: TBC subject to entries ENTRY
CLASS 331 GROUP OF THREE – one of the opposite sex
These Charollais classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks.
TEXEL
Championship results recorded as Class 341. The Selway Perpetual Challenge Trophy Presented by Mr & Mrs A Selway for the Best Texel Sheep Exhibit.
Judge: Mr J Kimber, Chippenham
FEE: £5.00 per class
Kindly sponsored by B & W Feeds
– one of the opposite
These Texel classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks.
ANY OTHER CONTINENTAL BREED
Championship results recorded as Class 350. The Mole Valley Perpetual Challenge Cup Presented by Mole Valley Farmers for the Best Exhibit in classes 343-348.
Judge: Mr J Kimber, Chippenham
These Any Other Continental Breed classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks.
ZWARTBLES
Championship results recorded as Class 357.
The Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show will be hosting the Zwartbles Sheep Association Southern Branch Show 2026. The Southern Zwartbles Group will award the Caunter Challenge Cup to the overall champion of this section.
The Kathy Watt Perpetual Memorial Challenge Cup Donated by the family of the late Kathy Watt for the Champion in classes 352-356.
The Southern Challenge Trophy Presented by P & C Caunter for the Reserve Champion in classes 352-356. The Zwartbles Society will award a Rosette to the Champion in classes 352-356.
Judge: Miss R Hurd, Wiveliscombe
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
These Zwartble classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks
ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL BREED
Championship results recorded as Class 366.
Judge: Miss R Hurd, Wiveliscombe
– one of the
These Any Other Commercial Breed classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks.
DORSET DOWN
Championship results recorded as Class 373.
Judge: Mr R Holloway, Stoke-Sub-Hampton
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN
: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show
THREE – one of the opposite
These Dorset Down classes are open to sheep from MV & Non-Accredited Flocks.
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
DUTCH SPOTTED
Championship results recorded as Class 380.
Judge: Miss Z Blackmore, Cullumpton
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
CLASS
OF THREE – one of the opposite sex
These Dutch Spotted classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks.
BUTCHERS LAMB
Championship results recorded as Class 384.
To be judged as potential butchers’ animals suitable for today’s trade. These classes will be judged in pens.
Judge: Mr A Doble of Southern Counties Auctioneers
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class PEN
CLASS 383 NATIVE BUTCHERS LAMB – born in 2026
These Butchers Lamb classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks.
COMMERCIAL SHEEP CHAMPIONSHIP
The Harry Tucker Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup (Class 386)
Presented by the late Harry Tucker, the Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup will be awarded alongside a Sash of honour to the Commercial Sheep Champion of the Show. A Sash of Honour will also be awarded to the Reserve Champion.
The Sheldon Jones Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup (Class 387)
The Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup will be awarded alongside a Sash of honour to the Commercial Group of Three Champion of the Show. A Sash of Honour will also be awarded to the Reserve Champion.
Judge: Mr B Blackmore, Dulverton
CLASS 386 COMMERCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP – to be judged from the Champion of the following sections: Dorset Horn & Poll Dorset, Suffolk, Hampshire Downs, Charrolais, Texel, Any Other Continental Breed, Zwartables, Any Other Commercial Breed, Dorset Down, Dutch Spotted
CLASS 387 COMMERCIAL GROUP OF THREE CHAMPIONSHIP - to be judged from the Group of Three Champions of the following sections: Dorset Horn & Poll Dorset, Suffolk, Hampshire Downs, Charrolais, Texel, Any Other Continental Breed, Zwartables, Any Other Commercial Breed, Dorset Down, Dutch Spotted
Classes to be held on THURSDAY 20TH AUGUST 2026
YOUNG HANDLER - SHEEP
HEALTH & SAFETY WARNING: Children must be experienced leaders and be familiar and confident handling their animal. Stewards have total discretion to ban an entry or order withdrawal if they consider it unsafe to proceed. Children must always be under the direct supervision of, and where necessary accompanied by, a competent adult.
PLEASE NOTE: These classes will start PROMPT at 8.30am in the FriarsMoor Livestock Health Sheep Judging Rings and all three classes will be judged simultaneously so each child will require their own animal.
JUDGES: Mrs J Wright, Tilsworth; Mr J Brigg, Ross on Wye; Mr T Ward, Montgomery
Classes 400 – 403: Handlers to exhibit a sheep of any breed, age or sex. The class will be judged on presentation and handling ability, the animal not to be judged.
ENTRY FEE: Free
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
to be 6 years & under on Show Day
to be 8 years & under on Show Day
be 12 years & under on Show Day
Handler to be 16 years & under on Show Day
CHAMPIONSHIP of Young Handler Sheep recorded as class 404.
MINORITY & TRADITIONAL BREEDS OF SHEEP
BRITISH NATIVE LONGWOOLS
Championship results recorded as Class 411. The Cox Perpetual Challenge Trophy
Judge: Mr J Brigg, Ross on Wye
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
CLASS 407 EWE Kindly sponsored by: Mogers Drewett Solicitors
CLASS
CLASS 410 GROUP OF THREE – of the same breed, one of the opposite sex
The Breed must be stated on the entry form. Please see Sheep Section Show Conditions Rule 2 & 3 for division of class rules. These Native Longwool classes are open to sheep from Non-Accredited Flocks only.
Class VBN* Valais Blacknose Classes Contact the Show Office, if sufficient entries we will make a separate breed class.
SHETLAND SHEEP
Championship results recorded as Class 419. The following classes are held under the auspices of the Shetland Sheep Society Ltd and sheep must be presented and exhibited under their rules.
The John Mylam Perpetual Trophy
Awarded to the Champion Shetland Sheep in this section. The Shetland Sheep Society provide rosettes for novice and young handlers. The judge will assess the abilities of the novice and young handlers who are 16 years old and under during the course of the normal Shetland classes (413-418) and award rosettes accordingly.
Judge: Mr A Hardwood, Horsham
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep
CLASS 417 EWE LAMB
CLASS 418 GROUP OF THREE – one of the opposite sex
These Shetland classes are open to sheep from Non-Accredited Flocks only.
GREYFACE DARTMOOR
Championship results recorded as Class 428. All sheep including lambs entered into this section must have been shorn in the year of the show. The Cameron Mackintosh Perpetual Salver Presented by Sir Cameron Mackintosh for the Best Greyface Dartmoor Exhibit in classes 421-426.
The Valerie Pratt Memorial Trophy
A bequest from the late Valerie Pratt to be awarded to the Best Exhibit of the opposite sex. The Hillside & Herne Flocks Perpetual Trophy To be awarded to the winner of the class 427.
Judge: TBC
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
CLASS 421 RAM
CLASS 422 SHEARLING RAM
CLASS 423 EWE £20 £15 £10
CLASS 424 SHEARLING EWE £20 £15 £10
CLASS 425 RAM LAMB
CLASS 426 EWE LAMB
CLASS 427 GROUP OF THREE – of the same breed, one of the opposite sex
£20 £15 £10
£20 £15 £10
These Greyface Dartmoor classes are open to sheep from Non-Accredited Flocks only.
ANY OTHER PRIMITIVE OR NATIVE BREEDS
Championship results recorded as Class 435.
The Pretty Oak Perpetual Challenge Trophy
Kindly presented by Maurice & Gillian Wakling. This trophy will be judged as part of the Championship to include the best Shetland (Blue Faced Leicester, Boreray, Castlemilk Moorit, Hebridean, Manx Loghtan, North Ronaldsay, Portland, Soay)
The Portland Cup
Presented by Denis & Leona Shaughnessy for the Best Portland Exhibit in classes 430-433.
PORTLAND SHEEP: we understand that there are a number of Portland breeders who might wish to exhibit, it is our policy to respond to demand & encourage all breeds by creating new classes (see Rule 2 & 3 of the Sheep Section Show Conditions).
Judge: Mr T Ward, Montgomery
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
by:
434 GROUP OF THREE – of the same breed, one of the opposite sex
The Breed must be stated on the entry form. Please see Sheep Section Show Conditions Rule 2 & 3 for division of class rules. These Any Other Primitive or Native Breed classes are open to sheep from Non-Accredited Flocks only.
NATIVE SHORTWOOL
Open to exhibitors of Ryelands, Coloured Ryelands, Oxford Downs and Southdowns Championship results recorded as Class 442.
The Roy Allen Memorial Trophy
Presented by Mrs Sue Lake for the Best Ryeland Exhibit in classes 437-440.
The Ryeland Flock Book Society will award rosettes to the Champion & Reserve Champion Ryeland exhibit in this section (excludes Coloured Ryelands).
Judge: Mr D Jenkins, Lancaster
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
CLASS 437 RAM
CLASS 438 EWE
CLASS 439 RAM LAMB
CLASS 440 EWE LAMB £20 £15
CLASS 441 GROUP OF THREE – of the same breed, one of the opposite sex
£20 £15 £10
These Native Shortwool classes are open to sheep from Non-Accredited Flocks only.
HILL, HEATH & MOUNTAIN BREEDS
Please refer to the Sheep Classification list at the beginning of this section. Championship results recorded as Class 449.
Judge: Mrs J Wright, Tilsworth
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
CLASS 448 GROUP OF THREE – of the same breed, one of the opposite sex
The Breed must be stated on the entry form. Please see Sheep Section Show Conditions Rule 2 & 3 for division of class rule. These Hill, Health & Mountain Breed classes are open to sheep from Non-Accredited Flocks only.
BLACK WELSH MOUNTAIN
Championship results recorded as Class 456. The Glebe Heath Perpetual Challenge Shield Kindly presented by Lyn Cockerill for the best exhibit in classes 451-454.
Judge: Mr M Evans, Abergavenny
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep Section Show Conditions
THREE – one of the opposite
These Black Welsh Mountain classes are open to sheep from MV Accredited & Non-Accredited Flocks
MINORITY SHEEP CHAMPIONSHIP
The Plumber Farms Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup (Class 458)
The Perpetual Championship Challenge Cup will be awarded alongside a Sash of honour to the Minority & Traditional Sheep Champion of the Show. A Sash of Honour will also be awarded to the Reserve Champion.
The Elizabeth Harris Memorial Challenge Cup (Class 459)
Presented by Leonard Jenkin to the highest placed group of three from the Minority and Traditional Breed sections.
The Pretty Oak Perpetual Challenge Trophy (Class 460)
Kindly presented by Maurice & Gillian Wakling to be awarded to the Best Primitive Animal, selected from the Any Other Primitive or Native Breeds & Shetland classes
Judge: TBC
CLASS 458 MINORITY & TRADITIONAL BREEDS CHAMPIONSHIP – to be judged from the Champion of the following sections: Native Longwool, Shetland, Greyface Dartmoor, Black Welsh Mountain, Any Other Primitive or Native Breeds, Native Shortwool & Hill Health & Mountain
CLASS 459 MINORITY & TRADITIONAL BREEDS GROUP OF THREE CHAMPIONSHIP
CLASS 460 PRIMITIVE CHAMPION – judged from the champion of the following sections: Any Other Primitive or Native Breeds & Shetland Sheep.
WOOL ON THE HOOF
Championship results recorded as Class 464.
Judge: Mr M Berry, Buckfastleigh
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per class
PEN CHARGE: see Rule 17 of Sheep
FLEECE CLASSES
Championship results recorded as Class 475. Wool Marketing Board Shield
Kindly presented by the British Wool Marketing Board for the champion of classes 470-474.
Judge: Mr M Berry, Buckfastleigh
ENTRY FEE: £5.00 per
FLEECE
CLASS 471 DOWN & FINE FLEECE – class for Suffolk, Ryelands, Portland,
Dorset Horn and Down breeds
CLASS 472 MEDIUM FLEECE – class for Texel, Charollais, Beltex and Lleyn
CLASS 473 LUSTRE FLEECE – class for Grayface, Devon, Bluefaced Leicester
CLASS 474 NATURAL COLOURED FLEECE – class for Jacob, Black Welsh
Mountain, Zwartables, Coloured Ryelands or any other natural colour pure bred or cross bred fleece
These Fleece Classes will be staged in the Sheep Section.
Classification as supplied by the Wool Marketing Board any breed not specified will be entered into the appropriate class as confirmed by the Wool Board judge.
These classes may be split at the judge’s discretion.
Kingston Veterinary Clinic Unit 5B
Coldharbour Business Park
Sherborne, Dorset
DT9 4JW 01935 813288
Grove Dene Veterinary Clinic The Forum
Abbey Manor Park, Yeovil Somerset BA21 3TL 01935 421177 kingstonvets co uk
Providing expert veterinary care for both small animals and farm animals in Somerset and Dorset for over 200 years
We are an agronomy and agricultural services company, supplying farming and agricultural products and services.
lawn seed, fertiliser, fibrophos, agricultural lime and silage additives. Our BASIS and FACTS qualified agronomists provide expert services including soil sampling, nutrient management planning, bespoke grass mixing and advice on crop selection and rotations.