National Primestock Show will be bigger and better
National Primestock Show will be bigger and better
“Following on from such a successful show last year when we moved to a Saturday-Sunday format, the NPSS could be called old fashioned, in as much as it does not stage the seminars favoured by other shows. But, what we do have is a show of outstanding quality cattle and sheep and a good relaxed atmosphere ringside in which everyone can discuss their ups and downs in life.
“In the show ring I think it is very important to keep the pure breeds classes separate from the crossbreeds until the championship judging. As a show society we are committed to this, retaining and developing classes for both native breeds and continentals.
After all we must remember where the crossbreeds came from. Our traditional breeds of cattle, sheep, and pigs have county or regional names, reminding us where they come from, and what they were bred for.
“With the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society owning Bingley Hall, and the venue being booked for a whole host of events for years ahead the future of the NPSS looks very bright.
“Bingley Hall, the home of the National Primestock Show is unique in having facilities for a carcass show, alongside the live cattle and sheep classes.
The integrated carcass area and chill rooms continue to benefit from £12,000 spent two years ago to upgrade the refrigeration facilities so that the carcass competitions meet all the latest hygiene regulations.
This year £250,000 has been spent on a complete refurbishment of the restaurant and kitchen facilities – another investment for the future.
“Following the introduction of new steel stalling systems for 100 cattle two years ago, further stalls and bases have been bought for each subsequent show and others refurbished so that we can provide safe and comfortable stalling for 460 cattle, plus pens in the extension for sheep classes. Having the carcass area alongside gives us a unique showing facility.
“We encourage young people to participate as part of the development of the show. On the Sunday more than 150 YFC members from all over the country will be taking part in their stock judging and carcass judging competitions while the NPSS has its own award for the best young handler of livestock in the judging rings over the two days.
“Alongside classes for live sheep and cattle, and the exhibition of carcasses of cattle, pigs, sheep and turkeys there are trade stands, and the ever-popular Christmas Fayre.
Here a separate exhibition hall will house trade stands and give an opportunity for Christmas shopping with a difference.
“We also have the National Product Competition for butchers, featuring pork sausages, speciality sausages, pork pie and black pudding; we are pleased to have this back on the Sunday after an absence of one year.”