A FARM near Ivybridge saw the opening of the primestock showing season last week.

Farmers from across South Devon brought their best young sheep and cattle to New Haye Farm, Ludbrook to compete for the various titles on offer in the Plympton Primestock Show.

Shows are held in other market towns in the run up to Christmas, culminating in the Exeter and District Primestock show on Friday, December 4.

The event saw Lewis Cook’s 632 kilogram Limousin steer Clean Bandit crowned supreme cattle champion, as well as champion in the halter led class.

Clean Bandit had a busy and successful summer show season including wins at Totnes, Yealmpton and Kingsbridge, and will hope to continue in the same vein as he turns out at other shows this year.

Chloe Quantick’s British blue cross heifer Ebony Star, weighing 516kg, took the halter led reserve champion title.

In the commercial classes Peter Phillips’ 698kg Limousin steer was named champion, with his Limousin cross heifer weighing 638kg reserve.

Jill Rowden’s April born Beltex cross Charollais ewe lamb was grand sheep champion, with D & G Tucker’s March born Charollais wether reserve.

Cups were presented by the show president Paul Kane, and organisers gave special thanks to the judges, sponsors and supporters of the show. A total of 24 cattle and 38 sheep were entered.