The event, which is designed to help agriculture and equine students to gain experience of preparing for agricultural shows and animal husbandry, is thought to be the only one of its kind in the country.

Classes included equine, beef, dairy and sheep.

Organiser, Helen Martin, said the students put on a great display. She added: "The aim of the event is to let students see what it's like to prepare for a real agricultural show and to gain experience of animal husbandry techniques so that when they enter the industry they will know how to rear their animals in the best way possible.


"All of the entrants did a fantastic job - they all looked very smart and the animals themselves looked amazing. Considering they have only had six weeks to prepare for this event and were given animals that couldn't walk on a halter, they have shown tremendous commitment and determination."

Simon Wheelwright (17), who is currently taking a first diploma in agriculture at the college, won the dairy class and went on to take overall stockman of the year.

All the entrants were charged with the complete care of their animal, including diet, grooming and exercise to ensure each was in the best condition on the day.

Those who took part in the beef, dairy or sheep classes also had to train the animals to walk on a halter.

Master judge, David Abram, said the competition introduces vital skills to learners which they may not have the chance to develop elsewhere.

"Thirty three years ago I was standing where these young people are now and from experience I can say that this will give them the confidence to handle animals and the skills to keep their own stock at their best," he said.