Zwartbles make their debut in dedicated section

The story in the sheep lines was a new section just for the Zwartbles, a black and white import from Holland which has been gathering followers to the point where many shows now recognise it. It appeals to hobby breeders because it is handsome and easy-going and to professionals because it makes good mothers. The Dutch used to run it mainly for milk.

The judge on Saturday, Joan Barker, from Ayrton, said: "People are crossing them with all sorts."

Top animal was a home-bred shearling ram, brought up by 12-year-old Harry Preston, from Bingley, under the eye of his father, Martin, a Charollais specialist. Sisters Rebecca and Jessica Lambert had a team in from the 40 or so they run alongside their parents' commercial flock near Horton in Ribblesdale, and a shearling ewe of theirs was reserve champion. The Limousin and best beef titles went to Richard Priestley, 20, now trading as Airedale Limousins of Denholme, independently of his prize-winning father, Steven, and grandfather, Michael, of Brontemoor Limousins. The winning heifer was led out by his sister, Sarah.