A YOUNG farmers stock judging competition took place this month in Dorset. 

The Melplash Agricultural Society's annual dairy stock judging competition took place at Pilsdon Dairy Farm near Bridport by kind permission of Simon Bugler.

There were 14 young farmers teams that entered the competition, with members from Beaminster, Marshwood Vale, Puddletown, Sherborne and Wedmore. 

Society chairman, Philip Hardwill, said: “The society’s you farmers dairy stock judging competition is an important fixture for the Melplash Agricultural Society. 

"Every dairy farm wants a herd of cows that will not only produce plenty of milk but will also have a calf and maintain a good level of health throughout the lactation. Being able to visually evaluate dairy cattle based on the physical traits that are desired in the animal for their health, longevity and high milk production levels is an especially important skill and one that takes practice.

"Young farmers' dairy stock judging competitions play a significant role in developing these skills and understanding."

The young farmers were put in teams of two and the juniors asked to assess four cows, while the intermediates and seniors assessed six cows. The cows were then placed in order from best to poorest and the young farmers gave reasons for their decisions. 

The teams then had to present their findings to the judges, who marked the young farmers on accuracy of observation and comparisons. 

Judges for the evening were father and daughter, Terry and Becky Cox, from Sturminster Newton. 

Prizes were awarded by the Melplash Agricultural Society president, Martin Cox. 

RESULTS

Juniors 

  • 1st and winners of the Melplash Agricultural Society Junior Shield – Hannah Forsey and Bobby Hutchings, Marshwood Vale YFC
  • 2nd – Jacob Tucker and George Tucker, Wedmore YFC
  • 3rd – Tia Groves and Sophie Raymond, Beaminster YFC

Intermediates

  • 1st and winners of the Melplash Agricultural Society shield – Lauren Hutchings and Joanna House, Marshwood Vale YFC
  • 2nd – Grace Willcox and Emily Bell, Wedmore YFC
  • 3rd – Liam Hector and Meg Hatch, Wedmore YFC

Seniors 

  • 1st and winners of the Francis W Hunt Perpetual Challenge Cup – Sophie Kerley and Amy Wonnacott, Puddletown YFC
  • 2nd – Henrietta Love, Marshwood YFC and Jasper Love, Sherborne YFC
  • 3rd – Elizabeth Bell and Jack Williams, Wedmore YFC

Best newcomer 

  • Hannah Forsey – Marshwood Vale YFC

Highest Placed Individual

  • Hannah Forsey - Marshwood Vale YFC