AN award launched last year at a livestock showcase returns again to find the top of the stocks in a young farmers’ competition.

The David Allen Stocksperson of the Year is running for the second year at the Borderway Agri Expo to test the skills, knowledge and capabilities of the progressive livestock farmer, with an attractive cash prize for the top three spots.

The competition is open to current members of any Young Farmers Club.

Run in conjunction with David Allen, the Dalston-based accountants, British Charolais Cattle Society, NEMSA and Cumbrian Young Farmers, the competition will see pairs of Young Farmer members be tested in three classes covering stock-judging, EBVs and stock valuation.

The aim of the challenge is to test entrants on their overall knowledge, eye for detail and innovation when it comes to livestock production.

Laura Millar, Borderway Agri Expo Event Co-ordinator, who last year came up with the idea of introducing this new addition to the Agri Expo programme, said: “As an organisation, we are passionate about encouraging and supporting the next generation and through this competition give them the opportunity to challenge themselves, putting themselves outside of their comfort zone, in order to develop their knowledge and understanding, and possibly learn something too.”

The competition will be broken down into three classes: Class 1 – Stock-judging - Each pair must place animals in the correct order as determined by the chosen judge. Class 2 – EBV Challenge -Pairs must select the most appropriate bull for each given scenario from details of the EBVs provided. Class 3 – Stock Value Challenge - Each pair must value four different grades of stock including store animal, calf, prime lamb and breeding sheep.

The overall winner will walk away with £300 and the Overall Champion trophy. Second place will receive £150 and third £100.

The competition is open to pairs of Young Farmers Club members aged 16-26.

Please note, both participants must be a current member of a YFC.

Registration on the day.

For further information please visit: borderwayagriexpo.co.uk.

Borderway Agri Expo showcases the best quality beef cattle and sheep, the latest developments in farming practice, breeding, genetics, machinery, equipment, technology, environmental issues, livestock marketing and export opportunities.

It is now known to be a true celebration of the very best British Livestock, as well as the farmers, breeders, and stockmen who look after them.

The event made a prolific return in 2021, after being postponed the year prior due to the pandemic.