Over 270 cattle have been entered for the competitive classes at the Livestock Event to be held at The NEC, Birmingham on Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 July. The National Dairy Show has received more than 190 entries, while the new National Charolais Show has a line-up of 78 entries.

“We’ve very pleased with the exhibitor interest and enthusiasm to come to show their cattle at The NEC - one of the best equipped venues in the UK with its temperature controlled environment and first rate handling facilities,” says RABDF chief executive, Nick Everington. “Our new arrangements feature relocating the cattle classes to the heart of the event in Hall 17 - one the main trade halls which is located next to the genetics zone, enabling livestock to be a great deal more prominent and enhance the experience for both visitors and exhibitors.”

He adds: “The event will provide all dairy cattle exhibitors with the opportunity to show their pedigree cows to commercial dairy farmers milking 80% of the UK’s cows, as well as to international visitors, while for Charolais breeders and young enthusiasts, we warmly welcome them to what is our first ever beef show at the event.”

The National Dairy Show will feature six dairy breeds competing for prestigious silverware and attractive prize money. Judging of in-milk cows will take place throughout the first day, Wednesday, while day two will feature the junior and showmanship classes culminating in the supreme interbreed awards which will be presented by RABDF president, Dr David Leaver.

The National Charolais Show, making its debut at the Livestock Event, is the breed society’s first ever show staged exclusively for Breedplan recording members. Judging will be completed on Wednesday while the following day will see the ring featuring over 50 youngsters from throughout the UK competing in the Young Charolais Breeders’ Stock Judging Awards.