The annual Christmas Show and Sale at Norwich Livestock Market featured a total of 115 cattle and calves, and 371 sheep. The event was also an opportunity to showcase the next generation of Norfolk agriculture, with young handlers classes judged by important local figures. The overall champion was nine-year-old Rosie Criddle, with the reserve prize going to 13-year-old Harry Key. Market chairman Stephen Lutkin emphasized the importance of the young handlers, as they represent the future of farming.
In the cattle classes, the overall championship was won by Meg Atkins with a British Blue cross steer, which sold for £1,175. Atkins also received a “special mention” for a nine-month-old British Blue cross heifer, which set a market record price for the age group at £1,675. The reserve champion prize went to Ed Lankfer with a pair of Simmental cross steers, selling at £990. In the calves section, judge Roger Long purchased the champion animal, a British Blue bull calf from CW Potter, for £500. The sheep competitions were judged by Chris Lakey, who bought both the champion and reserve champions, shown by TJ Martin and MK&CM Britton respectively.
The event also included charity auctions and a presentation of £5,380 to farming mental health charity YANA (You Are Not Alone), raised at a social evening including a raffle and auction. The market expressed gratitude to all the judges and event sponsors, Thetford-based animal feed firm Mills on Wheels. The participation of young handlers was highlighted as a significant aspect of the event, showcasing the next generation of farmers and emphasizing the importance of their involvement in the industry.
The Christmas Show and Sale at Norwich Livestock Market provided a valuable opportunity for showcasing the livestock industry in Norfolk and featured the important participation of young handlers. The event also saw impressive sales, with a British Blue cross heifer setting a market record price for its age group. Additionally, the event raised a substantial amount for the farming mental health charity YANA, demonstrating the community’s support for important causes. The market expressed appreciation to the judges, sponsors, and everyone involved in making the event a success. Overall, the event was a reflection of the vibrant and supportive agricultural community in Norfolk.
