Guernsey Goat Society’s annual show is kids’ play

The event, held at the society’s driving range on Saturday, was busy with owners and islanders keen to meet the goats.

The goats enjoyed the attention, and nibbling on any piece of clothing which happened to be too close to them.

The vast majority of the animals were Royal Golden Guernsey goats, but there were also alpines, boers and cross-breeds.

Club secretary Margaret Robilliard, who had brought along four goats, said in total about 40 goats were competing.

She said the judges were looking at all aspects of the animals.

‘They are looking for a straight back, feeling their haunches, checking their teeth,’ she said.

‘We have shampooed all our goats and brushed them, make sure their feet are clipped and teeth are clean.’

She said holding an event like this was important to keep local goat keeping, and specifically the local breed, going.

‘The Royal Golden Guernsey goat comes from Guernsey – this is its home and we should be showing it off.’

Among the people showing was Chloe Ferbrache, whose three-year-old billy Dribbles came first in best presentation.

‘We have six goats at home,’ she said.

‘It’s just fun to show.’

Charlotte Burgoine, 25, was showing her two-year-old alpine Ciara.

‘She had her first kid this year, so she is in milk for the first,’ Miss Burgoine said.

Ciara was not just being judged on her milk, with a lot of preparation going into her appearance, including careful attention to make her coat shimmer.

‘This is always a nice show,’ Miss Burgoine said.

Judges Keith Opie and Rachel Edwards were given the tough task of judging the animals.

‘The goats have been in great condition,’ said Mrs Edwards.

Members of the public came in to watch the competition and pet the goats.

Natalie de Freitas was there with her young son and daughter.

‘It’s a nice day and this is a free event,’ she said.

‘The kids really like animals.’