Goats judged at Young Stock Show in St Saviour’s

Around 25 goats, all goldens and boers, took part in the Guernsey Goat Society’s Young Stock Show in St Saviour’s at the weekend.

Katie White with buckling Lancelot, who won first place in the ‘under two years class’ at the Guernsey Goat Society’s Young Stock Show in St Saviour’s. (Picture by Sophie Rabey, 28508550)

The owners walk their goats on a lead around a ring, while an eagle-eyed judge watches their every move.

Then the owners and goats have to stand still in a line, and the judge takes a closer look, including examining whether the feet are in good condition, the line of the back, and the state of the mouth. Rosettes are then issued.

Picture by Sophie Rabey. 25-07-20. The Guernsey Goat Society's Young Stock Show was held in St Savirour's Revel Field this morning. Young goats from 6 weeks to 2 years of age are on show. The judging of the '1 & Under 2 years Class'.. (28508536)

A day of nature, farming heritage, and fresh air had attracted an impressive crowd of people, and the bunting was out at the Revel Field, showing that Guernsey’s summer season is back in business post-Covid.

Nico Branquet with boer goat Rocquaine River was the proud winner of a rosette.

He explained the preparation to get Rocquaine River in peak condition.

‘She’s done really well and all the hard work has paid off. We take them out on little walks around the lanes to train them up, and we brush them and take really good care of their fur and horns.

‘They’re lovely animals, really sociable and funny, and they’re unpredictable but in a good way.’

Agricultural shows are important to breeders, not just because they bring people together, but they are also a showcase for the best livestock.

Not long ago, Covid-19 had threatened the show, and Tracy Dyke, the new secretary of the Guernsey Goat Society, was very happy it was happening.

‘We are so pleased to be able to put this show on. We really didn’t think we’d be able to put one on, but it’s all come together last minute and we’re delighted with the entries we’ve had. We’ve got approximately 25 goats all ranging from the age of six weeks up to six years of age.

‘It’s a great turnout. Lots of people have come to watch, which is wonderful because it’s just a small show, and people love to see the animals.

‘Between me and my dad we’ve got 30 goats and the family really enjoy looking after them. They can be escape artists so you’ve got to make sure you’ve got good fencing, but they’ve all got their own characters.’