The north-east summer agricultural show season kicks off next weekend with the Fettercairn Show.
The show, which takes place on Saturday July 4 at East Bridgend Park, Fettercairn, will feature a strong line-up of cattle, sheep and horses from local exhibitors.
Last year the coveted title of show champion of champions was awarded to a Simmental bull from Gerald and Morag Smith, of Drumsleed, Fourdon, with their son, Douglas.
Grangewood William had previously taken the beef interbreed championship title after winning the Simmental breed championship rosette earlier in the day.
The sheep interbreed rosette was awarded to a Beltex gimmer on its first outing from Allan Alston, Drumchapel, Chapelton of Menmuir, Brechin.
While, the title of best horse in show went to the Clydesdale champion, Auguston Amber, from breed enthusiast and builder Norman Christie of at Woodside Croft, Kinellar.
This year a host of judges from across all parts of Scotland will cast their expert eye over the region’s livestock and horses.
The cattle ring will also host a new class for Highland Cattle.
Entertainment on offer includes a performance from the Quack Commandos – a team of sheepdogs that guide a flock of ducks around an obstacle course – and the Howe o’ the Mearns Pipe Band, which is based at Laurencekirk.
In addition, the Mearns Vintage Vehicle Club has joined forces with the Fettercairn Farmers’ Club to bring its rally to the show.
Entry to the show costs £8 for adults and £4 for children and OAPs.
JUDGES
CATTLE
Aberdeen-Angus and any other breed cattle – Lynwen Emslie, Kinockie, Mintlaw, Peterhead.
Simmental, Charolais and Limousin – Archie MacGregor, Allanfauld, Kilsyth, Glasgow.
Commercial cattle – James Nisbet, Sorn Mains Farm, Sorn, Mauchline.
Highland cattle – Lesley Lacey, Toll House, Lawers, Aberfeldy, Perthshire.
Overall cattle and young handler – Neil Caul, Balkello, Woodland House, Tealing Road, Kirkton of Auchterhouse.
SHEEP
Charollais – Jim Kennedy, Lyon Park, Haybole, Ayrshire.
Blackface – John Shearer, Hillhead of Mornish, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch.
Suffolk – Melvin Stuart, Milltown of Birness, Ellon, Aberdeenshire.
Beltex – Ross Williams, Upper Tullochbeg, Huntly, Aberdeenshire.
Texel – George Howie, Easter Knock, Mintlaw, Peterhead.
Jacob and young handler – Susan Mackie, Pusk, Malmullo, St Andrews.
Any other breed – Pauila Burnett, Aldie, Tain, Highlands.