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PICTURES: Thousands of agriculture fans turned out for the welcome return of the Black Isle Show


By Imogen James

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Livestock judging in the main ring. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Livestock judging in the main ring. Picture: James Mackenzie.

The show’s traditional open evening last Wednesday saw spectators enjoy showjumping, monster trucks and sheep shearing before the main event on Thursday.

Livestock competition. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Livestock competition. Picture: James Mackenzie.

Organised by The Black Isle Farmers’ Society this year’s outing was the first since 2019 thanks to the Covid restrictions of the past two years.

Watching the livestock competition. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Watching the livestock competition. Picture: James Mackenzie.

Thursday morning saw the judging of the wide variety of animals entered in the various competition categories including Shetland ponies, rabbits and guinea pigs and cattle.

Sheep shearing. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Sheep shearing. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Kenneth, Ruby, Grant and Calum McLennan. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Kenneth, Ruby, Grant and Calum McLennan. Picture: James Mackenzie.

Champion of champions was Islavale Lullaby, a Simmental from Backmuir Livestock in Keith shown by Reece Simmers. Bell Ingram sponsored the Champion of Champions event.

Fraser and Hannah Macleod with Jura the black lab and Beau the Cockapoo. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Fraser and Hannah Macleod with Jura the black lab and Beau the Cockapoo. Picture: James Mackenzie.

Phlair Shetland Stud took 14 ponies to the event and left with 35 rosettes, including best from Ross and mini champion.

Ian Chalmers, Chainsaw Creations. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Ian Chalmers, Chainsaw Creations. Picture: James Mackenzie.

In the horticulture section prizes were awarded for floral arrangements, fruit and veg.

Among winners was Norman Tulloch, for the most outstanding exhibit in cut flowers, and Bruce Begg, who impressed with his outstanding collection of potatoes.

Kirsty Crowcher and Darren Blackman with their dogs. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Kirsty Crowcher and Darren Blackman with their dogs. Picture: James Mackenzie.

Family fun on the day included a vintage tractor display and kids races, plenty of food and drink options and lots of stalls with vendors showcasing everything from handmade jewellery to local gins, clothing, preserves and more.

The day ended with a dance, with music from Dancing with Sharks.

Seonaidh and Rebecca Murdoch, Dram the border collie, Norman and Janet Murdoch, Joanne and Kayla Gallimore, Betty Draper and Dot the border collie. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Seonaidh and Rebecca Murdoch, Dram the border collie, Norman and Janet Murdoch, Joanne and Kayla Gallimore, Betty Draper and Dot the border collie. Picture: James Mackenzie.

Black Isle Show president Freida McKenzie said: “The event went well, the weather played into our hands, and as far as we are aware trade stands were busy - and we had a fantastic entry into our livestock sections.

“It was absolutely amazing to be back after the three-year break. People were delighted to catch up with friends and make new ones.

Vintage tractor parade. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Vintage tractor parade. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Dashh on stage. Picture: James Mackenzie.
Dashh on stage. Picture: James Mackenzie.

“We had a few hurdles as some companies no longer exist, and also due to the difficulties for some getting staff and stock, but it was marvellous to get a number of new trade stands.

“Apart form managing to pull everything together, just running the show was in itself a highlight.”


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