Scottish world ploughing champion readies to defend his title

Forfar-based world reversible ploughing champion, Andrew Mitchell Snr, is heading south of the border next week to defend his title.

He will be competing in the World Ploughing Championships, which take place at Crockey Hall, York, on September 8-11.

Mr Mitchell’s son, Andrew Jnr, who is currently Scotland’s conventional ploughing champion, will also head to the fixture to try and win some new titles.

In addition to the world championships, the Society of Ploughmen is hosting the British Ploughing Championships and a one-off world vintage competition and European horse class.

Scotland will be represented by Alex Irving from Kirkcudbright in the vintage mounted section, while Raymond Smart from Leven will compete in the vintage trailing contest. Lastly in the horses section, Alastair Pearson from Kirriemuir will represent Scotland.

Next week’s contest will help prepare competitors for the European Reversible and Scottish Ploughing Championships, which take place on October 18-20 at Salcoats Farm, West Fenton, East Lothian.