Teat tampering probe launched at show
Investigations are under way into two suspected cases of tampering in the animal classes at the Great Yorkshire Show.
A statement released by the show organisers confirmed that a probe was launched on Wednesday 10 July after checks on dairy animals by vets working for the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.
The owners of the animals have been informed and substances that may contravene the society’s malpractice rules have been taken away for analysis.
It will take two to three weeks before results from tests confirm whether tampering has taken place.
It is understood the two animals under investigation were allowed to continue taking part in the competition.
Speaking before the event, show director Bill Cowling warned that the society would be taking a tough line on tampering.
“For a number of years we have carried out random scanning. Previously we’ve never had cause to suspect anyone but no one is in any doubt as to how seriously we take this.”
Great Yorkshire show director, Bill Cowling
Mr Cowling described tampering – the banned practice of applying chemicals to give the udder a fuller appearance – as “heinous” and “despicable” and called on exhibitors to help stamp out the practice and “outlaw the cheats”.
He said: “For a number of years we have carried out random scanning. Previously we’ve never had cause to suspect anyone but no one is in any doubt as to how seriously we take this.”
He added that if tampering was confirmed the owners would be banned from future competitions and any prize money would be forfeited.
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