Shepherding and flock management skills in the spotlight

The annual Melplash Agricultural Society’s flock competition rewards farmers in the area for their shepherding and flock management skills. It is open to sheep farmers who live within 12 miles of Melplash village church who keep sheep for breeding whether commercial, pedigree or rare breeds. There are classes for small, medium and large flocks.
The Small and medium flock categories were judged by Mr John Yeates and stewarded by Society President, Michael Fooks and John Norman. The large flock category was judged by Adam Fooks and stewarded by Phillip Baker
The results are as follows:
Small Flock (15-30 ewes)
1st Ms Kaye Downey, Hardington Marsh: flock of mixed ewes
2nd Mrs Michelle Machin, Chilcombe: flock of Zwartbles
Medium Flock (51-300 ewes)
1st Mr Bruce Maltby, Kingston Russell: flock of Romney
2nd Mrs Beth Bright, Salway Ash: flock of Texel X
3rd R I Geddes & Partners, Toller Porcorum: flock of Roussin X Mule
4th Mr & Mrs David and Ruth Wilkins, Hooke: flock of Dorset Down
Large Flock (301 ewes and over)
1st Mr Lee Taylor, Rampisham Manor Farms: flock of Lleyn and Aberfield
2nd Mr Marcus Bagwell, Chedington Court Estate: flock of New Forest Clun/Dorset Horn/Poll Dorset
3rd Mr Jim Cook, Ryall: flock of Exmoor Mule X