Stock Judging

Yesterday evening's Stock Judging event, run in aid of Kilchoan Playpark, was a huge success. The judging itself was such fun that The Diary forgot to take any photographs: if anyone has some, they would be gratefully received but, in the meanwhile, here is a good tup for all to enjoy.

As well as the judging, there was a barbeque, raffle, auction and a ceilidh which went on well into the night, all well supported by both locals and a cheerful contingent from Mull who probably enjoyed the ferry ride home this morning as it was fairly bouncy out in the Sound.

Everyone was invited to take part in the judging. There were six classes - for example, black face ewes - each with four sheep in a pen. The animals were identified by colour - green, red, yellow and blue - usually by electrical tape wound round a horn or, with the lambs, tightly round their tails. The competitors had to order them in a neat little printed booklet. The entries were then collated by Pat MacPhail and Tony Swift using a clever little computer program which Tony has developed over the years.

First prize in the judging went to the eyes of experience, with Alasdair 'Pinkie' Connell and Ian Ramon tying for the honour. The Diary won second prize, a large silver cup - something which The Diary has never won in all its life before, so it was very happy and has placed it in central position on the sitting room mantlepiece. This success is a mystery to all, as The Diary knowledge of sheep could be written in bold letters across the back of a 20p postage stamp. Put it down to a statistical anomaly. As is proper in all good competitions, the ladies were ranked separately, with first prize going to Nan MacLachlan.

Many thanks to the organisers for a great evening and for the cup, which will be treasured.