Colligarth calf takes top prize at Sanday Show

The shows season got off to a breezy but rain-free start at Sanday Show today where the Browns of Colligarth Farm broke Malcom and Angela Lennie of Seaview’s five-year run of success in the cattle section with a February-born, home-bred Limousin-cross calf, that also went on to pick up the prize for Best Exhibit in Show.

George Brown of Colligarth said of the calf, which was out of a Limousin-cross Belgium Cow and sired by the bull, Norseman Black Isco bought from Jack Rendall of Rowland Farm in Holm: “He took a job to break as he was so quiet and he has done us proud here today. This is the first time we have won best in show since 2011.”

Cattle Judge, Lee Coghill, said the calf took his eye as soon as it entered the ring: “It was smart, stylish and looked every bit a champion.”

Not to be outdone, Norma Brown – George’s wife – won the best exhibit in the industrial section with a Shetland Lace Yarn shawl – her first overall win in 40 years of exhibiting at the show, and their son Raymond won the poultry section for the second year running with a Bantom hen.

Malcolm Lennie of Seaview, the Show President this year, did however manage to hold on to his Sheep title taking both champion and reserve in that section.

Afterwards he told The Orcadian: “While I am disappointed at losing the cattle section it was good to see the trophies being spread out this year and some of my colleagues winning. It was something that was needed. The show has been a great success with all livestock entries up other than poulty which dipped this year. There was a particularly good show of dogs and I was delighted to see so many trade stands coming out for the day and seemingly doing good trade.”