13 October 2010

3 minute read

Europe

Event organisers, National Beef Association South West, moved the biannual show from Hatherleigh Market, to Exeter Livestock Centre, resulting in a substantial increase in visitor numbers and renewed interest in the beef sector.

BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson drew a packed audience to the opening and launch of Ladies in Beef, founded by Minette Batters and Jilly Greed who are spearheading the Great British Beef Week from April 18th – 23rd 2011, a major celebration centred on St George's Day to raise the profile and sales of British Red Tractor assured beef.

Show President John Lee said: 'There was a bounce and sparkle to the show with a great deal of pride in the exceptional quality of cattle at the event. To see over 40 young farmers taking part in the showing and stock judging classes as well the large numbers attending, is tremendously reassuring for the future of the industry. A view shared by our special guest Adam Henson, who made a point of encouraging young farmers to play a strong role in the industry throughout the event.' Exhibitors were impressed with the quality of trade with one company reporting enquiries totalling over £10 million of farm investment, with other feed and machinery businesses commenting on the high levels of interest.

Jono Cole, Vice Chair NBASW said: 'Thanks to the support of our sponsors, exhibitors, young beef producers, young farmers, showmen and show women - and most importantly everyone helping on the day, giving their time, we hope we have made Beef South West an event everyone can be proud of and move the industry forward.'

He added" 'This is the first time we've held the event in Exeter and of course it's a learning experience. You find out how the site works and where areas can be improved. We set up a park and ride at Exeter Racecourse just 10 minutes away which many visitors found quick and efficient. But of course some farmers wanted to park close to the market and the onsite car park quickly filled with the large numbers attending. We understand the frustration of one or two visitors but I think once they were in the show, with so much going on and some outstanding cattle being shown, they soon started enjoying themselves.

He said, 'We've got a much better feel now. This is a grass roots initiative to help the South West beef sector develop and we’re keen to build on the success for 2012.'

The scene was set for an uplifting show on the build up day, with an excellent farm walk hosted by Patrick and Sheila Greed to the sold out Beef Event supper the night before. On the day, there was a tangible buzz around the show with a packed programme of activity and special features including 23 breed societies, over 100 trade stands, the chefs and butchers taking part in the EBLEX Butchery & Cookery Theatre, the Primestock Show, where some outstanding showmen and women eagerly competed for the top prize money. Particular highlights included the South West Yearling Bull of the Year and Young Showman of the Year. Beef South West has been generously supported by lead sponsors EBLEX, Mole Valley Farmers, AMC, St Merryn Foods, Shearwell Data, ASDA, ABP, Southern Counties Fresh Foods, JCB, McCormick, Kuhn, RSM Beares, Exeter Livestock Auctioneers and South Devon Herd Book Society.

TheCattleSite News Desk