‘IT’S not Holsworthy Show without a bit of mud’ — but despite the sludge gathering at people’s feet, success was apparent in this year’s sheep section.

From local winners in and around Holsworthy, to the finest sheep from around Bude, Camelford, Launceston and even further afield — many sheep farmers from around the area were delighted to take champion and reserve champion rosettes, along with first, second and third prizes.

One winner from Lewannick, near Launceston, was Mr Graham Tucker — a regular to all the prestigious agricultural shows. When the Post spoke to him, he had already come away with champion for his four-tooth ram and reserve champion for his two-tooth ewe pair.

With Holsworthy Show being the last event of the season, Mr Tucker was pleased to end it on a high. “It’s been a very good day, with lots of strong competition.”

He laughed as he told the Post that local rivals the Tancocks were not at the show, stating: “The Tancocks have stayed home to give us a chance!”

Mr Tucker added: “It’s been ideal weather for it — just a bit of mud, but you can put a pair of boots on, can’t you? It’s not Holsworthy Show without a bit of mud!”

Hailing from Camelford, the Cornelius family was delighted to have won best exhibit, as well as champion, with their Scotch Blackface sheep.

Abby Cornelius attended on behalf of her grandfather, Philip, who has kept a large flock in the past. She told the Post: “It’s nice weather for it, it’s dry, so that’s good. We’re very pleased with our wins — it was unexpected.

“We enjoy Holsworthy, we enjoy all of them — some more than others. We have a fair few sheep — 16 altogether. My granddad used to have a large flock, but us grandchildren have taken them on now. He looks after the show lot though — it keeps him out of gran’s way at least!”

Even with mud and clouds threatening showers, exhibitors in the sheep section seemed delighted with their success, with a cheery atmosphere for everybody walking around the pens.