WHAT A DAY AT ROYAL NORFOLK!

This week I had the privilege of judging Hereford cattle at the Royal Norfolk Show, my most significant judging appointment yet and it was certainly a day to remember!

My 2026 has been hampered by illness and injury, playing havoc with my body and mind, and preventing me from doing so much of the farm work I love. This judging opportunity was my chance to overcome those challenges.

So my judges outfit was chosen (thank you to my "Outfit Advisors" - they know who they are), my cowboy hat was dusted off, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment.

Before me stood high-quality cattle, some in very large classes, presenting me with difficult decisions.

The heat was undoubtedly a factor, so I tried to be both swift and thorough while ensuring the animals received the utmost care. I try to give each exhibit equal attention, to put the handlers at ease and to make it an enjoyable experience for all.

Ultimately I ended up with a final four to be proud of. My Female Champion was a cow and calf unit from Pepperstock, and the Reserve Female and Junior Champion was a March 25 born heifer from Pulham. The Male Champion was a December 2024 born bull from Coley, and the Reserve Male Champion and Reserve Junior Champion was a March 2025 bull from Benacre. The final tap was a tough decision as both Male and Female Champions were worthy Supreme Champions. I think my words were "he was just standing there like a king", and it was his sheer presence that rewarded bull Coley 1 Centurion with my champions tap. Pepperstock 1 Molly V715 was my Reserve Champion.

To my delight, Coley 1 Centurion marched on to become the Interbreed Champion the following day. What an incredible achievement, a boost for the Hereford breed and massive congratulations to Coley Herefords, Heather Whittaker and Andrew Hughes.

Thank you to all exhibitors for presenting such high-quality and well turned out cattle. Royal Norfolk Show deserves special thanks for their exceptional hospitality. Our stay at Dunstone Hall, the pre-show dinner and the hospitality on show day were truly amazing. It was a fantastic show and Moralee Herefords may consider attending with cattle in the future. We also appreciate Midlands & East Anglia Hereford Breeders' Association hospitality at their tent and their impressive butcher’s display.

A huge thank you to Tom Harrison for being at ringside and holding my handbag!

Our long journey home was made easier by the great memories created, and the bonus of the roadside strawberry  stall (which we don’t have in Northumberland)!

Thank you Wayne Hutchinson Sam Hutchinson for the photographs