Page 42 - British Blue Yearbook 2023

NORTHERN IRELAND BLUE CATTLE CLUB 2022 Our AGM, via zoom, was again held in February this year and all committee members retained their seats.
With the summer show scene back to normal, first stop was Balmoral. There was a great turnout of Blue cattle in front of a very capable judge, Andrew Haste, from the Stoneleigh heard in Devon. Andrew remarked on the quality of the cattle in all classes. His champion on the day was Solway view Oki Doki, a powerful and very correct Young cow belonging to Joshua Arrell from Randalstown. Reserve champion was another young cow, Boroside Lemon from Melvin Masterson who travelled all the way from County Wexford. The premier breeder and exhibitor awards both went to Jim and Laura Ervine’s Knockagh herd which had an on outstanding show team. The awards were presented that evening with refreshments laid on by the society.
The local summer shows were also well attended by Blue breeders. The show herd of the year was won by Jim and Laura Ervine’s Knockagh herd and runner-up was Joshua Arrell’s Artlone herd. This was kindly sponsored by Johnny Young and the prize-giving was held at our annual dinner dance in Temple Golf Club.
In August, the club welcomed Society Chairman and veteran breeder, Graham Brindley to judge our herd competition. There was a great entry of herds for this event. Graham, who was joined by his friend, Jim Barber, for the trip spent three days travelling from farm to farm. Both gentlemen said they really enjoyed the hospitality of the breeders and seeing the high quality of their cattle. All breeders who entered remarked how it was brilliant to have a chat with Graham and Jim, who both have a vast knowledge of the Blue breed. This event was kindly sponsored by Mason’s Animal Feeds and the awards were presented at our annual BBQ and Charity Auction in the Spa Rugby Club.
Graham announced the Chatham herd of Jack and Anne Morrison, Armoy, as the winner of the herd competition and reserve went to the Breezehill herd of Isaac Ward from Crumlin. A great night was had by all and the charity auction raised £1050 for the Friends of the Cancer Centre. The Club would like to say a special thanks again to Graham Brindley and to all who donated to the auction.
Premier Breeder & Exhibitor award presentation at Balmoral L/R Jim Ervine, Laura Ervine & Judge, Andrew Haste
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