THERE was a 'real buzz in the air' at a successful primestock show earlier this week. 

Held at Westpoint Arena in Exeter, Agrifest South West 2024 took place on November 6. 

There were 76 primestock exhibitors, 151 cattle, 117 sheep, 37 entries to the steak, sausage and burger competition and 32 trade stands. 

READ MORE: Agrifest returns to Westpoint Arena in Exeter, Devon

John Acres from BBC Radio Devon judged the steak, burger and sausage competition. He chose the Black & Blue Burger- a beef burger infused with blue cheese and rimmed with black pepper - created by Helen May at Exe Valley Farm Shop as the winner.

John said: “Though I’m not normally a big fan of blue cheese it gives this burger a delicious richness and sweetness that singled it out from the crowd.”

Results 

  • Baby Beef Championship - won by P&L Calcraft’s Limousin x heifer Toffee
  • Supreme Pedigree Calf Championship  - won by Mr & Mrs Alford with their Charolais, Foxhillfarm Victorious (they also took home Reserve Champion with their Aberdeen Angus, Foxhill Princess Caroline)
  • Young Bull of the Year Championship - won by Arradfoot & Newland Pedigree Livestock with their British Limousin Arradfoot Ultimate
  • Mr. Robert Garth and Sarah Priestly retained their title of Supreme Champion with a Texel Pair of Lambs (not only did the pair claim supreme title—they also took home Champion Pure Bred Continental Pair and Overall Champion Pure Bred Pair of Lambs)
  • Supreme Champion Primestock Championship - won by Mr and Mrs Alford with The Mistress

Agrifest chair, Deborah Custance Baker, said: “This year’s event showcased the crème de la crème of primestock for both cattle and sheep.  We have already had great feedback from our expert judges who were greatly impressed with the standard of entries this year.  

"There was a real buzz in the air and a great atmosphere prevailed, despite the well-publicised struggles facing our farming community.

"A 10-year-old handler winning the young farmers class with her own cow is testament to the fact that the next generation is already committed to continuing the hard work of generations of South West farmers, producing the exceptional, high-quality food we all need and love.”