The annual Hexham Auction Mart event raised £2,500 for the North of England Blackface Breeders.
This year’s event was held on a Sunday, a change from past events, as it usually happens midweek during the school break.
Chris Armstrong hosted the event and explained its concept. It is like a stock judging contest for young farmers. They judge different kinds of sheep.
Participants submit their sheep judging results and watch the judge carefully. Agreeing with the judge gives more points, increasing chances of winning the competition.
Melvin Ridley, a farmer at Shitlington Hall Farm, judged the sheep this year. Armstrong called him a respected breeder and an expert on livestock.
Ridley judged ten sheep classes, including Open, Ladies, and Junior classes. Each class showcased four sheep, and he looked at each one closely.
Ridley checked body and shape first, then skin and legs. He liked sheep with a pleasing look, stating it was good for people to view stock.
While you can disagree with his opinion as judging is just one person’s view, Ridley felt honored to be the judge and appreciated the invitation.
Andrew Murray from A&S Murray and Sons won the top prize with his Bluefaced Leicester Tup Hogg.
The Blackface group is self-funded and holds events to raise money. Organizers were thrilled about the amount raised, exceeding what they got in 2024.
Armstrong said the event brings producers together for fun and socialisation. Folks enjoy friendly competition there.
Farmers work hard all winter, and this event allows them to enjoy each other’s company. It offers a great afternoon to relax together.