Head of Show, David, reflects on judging duties at the Northumberland County Show

I was honoured to receive an invitation to judge at Northumberland County Show near Hexham earlier in the year and finally made the trip down in May. Following a challenging week of weather for the organisers, the impact local shows have on local communities was there for all as the sun shone and the Northumberland public came out in their thousands to support their local show.

I was tasked with judging the prestigious JS Hubbuck Champion of Champions bringing together the top cattle, sheep, horse, pig and rabbit at the show for one to be named overall show champion.

The line up was very strong making it a very tough decision however, it was the Hereford bull that really stood out. Moralee 1 Rebel Kicks bred by Tom and Di Harrison. Tom and Di are long standing competitors at Northumberland County Show and have been involved with the Show for many years in a variety of posts and although its their local show had never won Champion of Champions before.

Morlee 1 Rebel Kicks had been retired from showing following a very successful campaign in 2021 which included winning the Hereford and Native Interbreed Championship at the Royal Highland Showcase, which was the behind closed doors lived streamed event put on in place of the Royal Highland Show due to covid.

Reserve Champion went to Matilda the large black pig from Dave Hurd of Ponteland just outside Newcastle. This breed of pig is on the critically endangered list so great to see the breed get some recognition and highlight the conservation work from breeders like the Hurd family. Dave’s son Archie accompanied Matilda to the ring having won reserve in the young handler, pipped at the post by his sister Rose.

The hospitality I received at the Northumberland County Show was second to none. From the moment I arrived, I was made to feel at home. The organisers and volunteers went above and beyond to ensure that judges, exhibitors, and visitors had everything they needed and this was underpinned by a palpable sense of community. Events like these are the lifeblood of rural areas, bringing people together to celebrate their shared heritage and achievements and their importance cannot be understated.