THE Welsh Dairy Show at Carmarthen in October has become one of the most important dates in the Welsh dairy farmer’s calendar, combining a comprehensive trade show with an exhibition of top quality dairy cattle.

Calling for many more livestock entries, this year's president, Mansel Raymond – former chairman of COPA (the first European organisation representing farmers –the Committee of Professional Agricultural Organisations) says: “The show attracts a very wide range of trade-stands from businesses both national and international, and with well over 100 cattle competing, the Welsh Dairy Show is an essential date in the dairy industry calendar.

“Continuing to provide visitors with a complete “one stop shop” event at which to meet the milk buyers, feed suppliers, AI companies and consultants, plus showcasing an extensive display of agricultural machinery and equipment”.

The event on October 24 is also an excellent and profitable networking opportunity, with a range of experts readily available to provide plenty of food for thought and discussion throughout the day.

Dairy cattle are at the heart of the show representing the six main breeds, plus classes for calves and junior showmanship to encourage the exhibitors of the future.

The classes reach an exciting climax at the end of the day with each breed champion judged by a panel of five experts who mark the entrants out of ten, with all competitors hoping for the elusive 50 out of 50.

Various annual awards within the dairy industry are also scheduled to be presented: by the National Farmers Union in Wales to the stockperson of the year and by the Farmers Union of Wales to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to the dairy sector in Wales over the past year.

All livestock entries and trade stand applications close at the end of September.