There were showers, but the weather deterred neither exhibitors nor crowds from attending the Benty Show last Saturday.
The overall sheep champion at the Westerkirk Horticultural Society’s show in Bentpath near Langholm was a Cheviot ewe shown by Mark Little of Potholm Farm, Langholm, while Ron Weir of Westerhall, Bentpath was overall reserve with the Blackface champion, a shearling tup.
Show secretary Allison Little said: “A good day was had by all. There were sunny spells and a few showers, but they certainly did not seem to dampen the spirit of those who were there as the atmosphere was superb. All in all, I would say another successful show was held which was well attended by young and old.
“There were a high number of entries and I’m pretty sure the judges had their work cut out. The terrier racing was exciting as always, and the children’s sports had everyone cheering.”
Her comments were echoed by show chairman, Wull Little, a flower and vegetable prizewinner, who said: “I was pleased with the standard at the show. The sheep classes were very strong. I think we’re about the only show where the sheep are undressed, they are untouched and come in straight off the field.
“The marquee was excellent, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the barbecue afterwards went well. It’s a day out for local people to come and have a wee blether.”
The hound trails at the show, which dates back to 1861, were moved to start and finish at the other side of the River Esk.
There was also sheaf tossing and the fell race, which was won by local runner Matthew Pool, with Alistair Hogg finishing second and Alexander Shipley – who also won the 15-and-under prize – finishing third.
The trophy presentations were made by Eskdalemuir’s May Reid, who received a bouquet of flowers from Bentpath youngster Ashton McKinnel.
And long-time show supporter Dorothy Hogg, retiring after about 35 years as an attending member, was presented with a bouquet of flowers by treasurer Anne Wood.
Other trophy winners – Sheep: Most points - Mark Little and Elliot Cavers; Cheviot - Mark Little; opposite sex to champion - Mark Little; gimmer - Neil Cavers; group - Mark Little; ewe lamb - Andrew Reid; tup lamb - Mark Little; Blackface - Ron Weir; opposite sex to champion - Elliot Cavers; group - Ron Weir; ewe lamb - Elliot Cavers; Plants and Flowers: most points - Wilma Turner; pot plants - Kate Elliot; begonia - Wilma Turner; chrysanthemums - Wilma Turner; best flowers exhibit - Wull Little; wild heather - Morag McGill; Vegetables: most points - Jock Grant; best exhibit - Wull Little: flower garden/border - Wilma Turner; kitchen garden - Bernard Provost; Industrial: most points - Lilian Coupland; best exhibit - Jane Fisher; most points baking - Hazel Johnstone and Catherine Tod; best baking exhibit - Clare Johnstone; preserves - Elizabeth McNeil; preserves - Denise Charlton; home made wine/liqueur/soft drink - Lara Porter; Photography: most points - Tom Hutton; winter’s scene - Katrina Kenny; Sticks; best in show - Philip Roskell; novice - Diane Hope; wood head - Philip Roskell; Children’s section: most points - Greig Cartner; outstanding exhibit - Seth Brown; Dogs: collie - Finn Stewart; dog - Aileen Cavers with Kai; terrier racing - Elliot Cavers with Kai.