PICTURES: Successful return for Caithness County Show as organisers say 'the hard work has really paid off'
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Thousands turned out on Saturday to mark the return of the County Show for the first time since the start of the pandemic, with officials from Caithness Agricultural Society suggesting that the event could have been a record-breaker.
"The hard work has really paid off and we couldn't ask for better," president John Murray declared as he surveyed the busy show field at Thurso East.
After an overcast start, there were long spells of sunshine in the afternoon for the biggest agricultural and social event of the year in the far north. One visiting judge hailed the "conviviality and goodwill" that was evident throughout the day.
Mr Murray, of Netherside, Castletown, the fourth generation in his family to hold the presidency, said: "I think it has been an absolutely tremendous show. It has been very well supported by the public. The weather couldn't be better and everything is just spot-on."
When asked about the numbers attending, he replied: "It is very hard to estimate but I am hoping for a record number."
The champion of champions award at the 179th County Show went to the supreme horse winner, Independent Boy (Bailey), a four-year-old light horse owned by Geraldine Harrold and ridden by James Munro.
The gelding, sired by Co-Pilot, had taken the overall horse award at Wick in 2019 when it was shown by Russell Skelton.
Mrs Harrold was thrilled with the win, although work commitments meant she had to miss the show.
"We're absolutely delighted with what James and Russell have done with him," she said.
"I had to work, unfortunately – I was really gutted that I wasn't there. It was a big thing getting the supreme this time."
Mr Murray described Independent Boy as "a very worthy champion", saying: "It was very well turned out and very well presented."
William Barnetson & Sons, Lynegar Farm, Watten, took the supreme sheep championship and the reserve champion of champions award with their commercial sheep champions, a four-crop three-quarters Texel cross half-bred ewe with her twin Texel cross lambs, after an Annan tup.
Overall cattle honours went to J Munro & Son, Invercharron Farm, Ardgay, with the commercial winner, female champion and top beef entry, Jacket Potato, a 15-month-old British Blue cross heifer, after Caithness Norseman. Jacket Potato was also the supreme cattle champion at the Latheron Show.
Kris Sutherland had the reserve supreme cattle champion, reserve commercial champion and overall male champion, a March-born cross steer calf by a British Blue bull from Dunbeath Farms.
D N Campbell & Sons, Bardnaclavan took the reserve supreme sheep championship and North Country Cheviot title with a gimmer by Durran Ace.
Overall horse judge Jack Clark made the long journey from the Galashiels area and was happy to be back in Caithness.
Mr Clark, retired managing director of livestock auctioneers John Swan & Sons, said: "I think the benefit that we're seeing today is that people are meeting up with each other socially. The livestock exhibitors are back in number and there is general conviviality and goodwill circulating throughout the whole show field.
"It is superb being back here and I'm meeting up with people that we used to do business with and haven't seen for years, and we're all just picking up exactly where we left off last time."
Highland councillor Ron Gunn was among those soaking up the show day atmosphere. He said: "Folk are wanting to get back out. It's great to see such a good turnout for the County Show and a good chance for people to come along and catch up with each other."
Broke FMX freestyle motocross provided a spectacular main-ring attraction. There was concern among the spectators when stunt rider John Pearson took a tumble when landing on his final jump, but he was said to be unhurt and no medical attention was required.
Earlier he had praised the venue, saying : "It's absolutely perfect with a nice arena for riding and the crowd are amazing."
Other attractions included the flower show, the open industrial sections, the Northern Quality Produce marquee, a Caithness HAS Got Talent competition and trade stands.
CATTLE
Overall cattle champion: J Munro & Son, Invercharron, with the commercial winner, female champion and top beef entry, Jacket Potato, a 15-month-old British Blue cross heifer, after Caithness Norseman. Jacket Potato was also the supreme cattle champion at the Latheron Show.
Reserve: Kris Sutherland, Dunbeath Farms, with the overall male champion, a March-born calf after a British Blue bull.
Shorthorn – Cow in milk, or in calf (born before June 1, 2019): A & S Polson, Westerloch Farm.
Simmental – Bull born on or after June 1, 2020: J & J Gunn, Mavsey, Lybster.
Continental – Bull born on or after June 1, 2020: Oag, Achiebeg. Heifer born on or after June 1, 2020: R Jenkins, Ha of Bowermadden.
Commercial – Heifer in calf or in milk, cow in calf or in milk and heifer calf born on or after February 1, 2022: Andrew Swanson, Quarryside Farm. Heifer 14 months and over, steer 14 months and over, heifer calf born during period October 1 to January 31 2022, and best butcher's animal: J Munro & Son, Invercharron.
Steer born during period June 1 to September 30, 2021: K Grant, 2 Lochend, Barrock. Steer calf born on or after February 1, 2022: Dunbeath Farms. Cow/heifer and own calf: G Begg, Bonnells, John O'Groats.
Cattle young handlers – Age 8-12: Ammie Maclean. Age 13-16: Tilly Munro, Invercharron.
Young Farmers' calf competition: Pedigree calf born between March 1 and September 1, 2021: Will Oag, Achiebeg. Commercial calf born betwen March 1, and September 1, 2021: T Munro.
Special AI prizes – Best AI animal (beef): W Oag, Achiebeg. Best AI calf born on or after October 1, 2021: G Begg, John O'Groats.
Cattle champions – Shorthorn: A & S Polson, Westerloch Farm, with the reserve female champion. Reserve: D & C Coghill, Knockdee Farm.
Simmental: J and J Gunn, Mavsey, with Caithness Maverick, the reserve supreme cattle champion and continental champion at the Latheron Show, a 15-month-old Simmental bull after Corskie Jackpot, dam Mavsey Golden Pride.
Continental: Oag, Achiebeg, with Brims Smithy, a 13-month-old pedigree Limousin bull sired by Brims Nicco, dam Brims Jocelyn. Reserve: Oag, Achiebeg, with Brims Sniper, a 13-month-old Limousin bull sired by Carmorn Max.
Commercial: J Munro & Son, Invercharron. Reserve: Dunbeath Farms.
Young Farmer calf competition: T Munro, Invercharron. Reserve: W Oag, Achiebeg.
SHEEP
Overall sheep champion: William and James Barnetson, Lynegar, with the commercial sheep winners, a group of three – a four-crop three quarter Texel cross home-bred ewe with two Texel cross lambs sired by an Annan tup.
Reserve: Messrs D N Campbell & Sons, Bardnaclavan.
Border Leicester – Shearling tup and ewe lamb: A Miller & Sons, Aimster. Tup lamb, ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it and gimmer: Katie Buchanan, Ousdale Farmhouse, Berriedale.
Suffolk – Aged tup and ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it: K Gunn, Shop Farm, Scotscalder. Shearling tup and gimmer: B & L Swanson, East Murkle. Tup lamb and ewe lamb: P & E Mackay, 6 Forss.
Half-bred – Ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it, gimmer, three half-bred ewe lambs and ewe lamb: A Miller & Sons.
Prime lambs – Two NCC or half-bred lambs: Henry M Sutherland, Drummuie Farm Cottage, Golspie. Two Suffolk sired prime lambs and two cross any other continental sire prime lambs: Messrs Sutherland, Sibmister and Stainland Farms.
Two Texel sired prime lambs and two cross any other native sire prime lambs: J Campbell & Co, Todholes. Two novice continental cross prime lambs (untrimmed only): J & J Swanson, Hillhead.
North Country Cheviot – Aged tup, two shear tup, ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it and gimmer: Messrs D N Campbell & Sons, Bardnaclavan Farm. Shearling tup: J & W Mackay, Biggins.
Shearling tup, ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it and ewe lamb (small farmers and stockmen): Will Campbell, Thurso. Tup lamb: A G Simpson, Cairnside. Tup lamb (small farmers and stockmen): Hilliclay NCC. Gimmer (small farmers and stockmen): Zoe Mackay, Biggins.
Ewe lamb: J Forbes, Boultach. Three gimmers and three Dinmont tups: C & I Angus, Oldfield Farm.
Cheviot hill sheep – Ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it, tup three shear and over, tup two-shear and tup lamb: A Campbell, Mill House, Thurso. Gimmer and ewe lamb: M Macdonald, Achentoul Farm Cottage. Shearling tup: Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust, Longoe Farm.
Blackface – Ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it, gimmer and tup lamb: T H Elder, Auldwell Croft. Ewe lamb and tup: M Macaskill, Murray House, Armadale.
Native – Ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it, gimmer and tup lamb: H Sinclair, Upper Latheron. Ewe lamb: D A & K Douglas, Achnamoine Farm. Best Shetland sheep: A M Douglas, Achnamoine Farm.
Lleyn – Best male, tup lamb, female and ewe lamb: J Campbell & Co.
Commercial – Cheviot ewe or gimmer with half bred lambs at foot: A Miller & Sons. Ewe or gimmer, any other breed or cross with lambs at foot: William Barnetson & Sons.
Cross – Ewe and ewe lamb: Messrs Sutherland. Gimmer: C & I Angus.
Texel (MV accredited) – Ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it: A Gunn, The Shiean, Hill of Forss. Gimmer, shearling and tup lamb: J Coghill, Burnside, Huna. Ewe lamb: C & I Angus. Aged tup: D Bain, Kennachy Farm.
Texel (non-MV accredited) – Ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it, and tup lamb: C & W Budge, Hoy & Braal. Gimmer: Bisset and Blackwood, Thorhaven, Riverview. Ewe lamb and shearling: W Mackay, Oldfield Terrace, Thurso.
Continental – Ewe having had a lamb this season and reared it: Macey Henderson, Dulnain Bridge. Gimmer and tup: J & A Budge, Knockglass Farm. Ewe lamb: E Bain, Kennachy Farm. Tup lamb: K & N Mackay, Mey Smithy.
Fleece competition – Fine fleece and NCC fleece: D A & K Douglas. Medium fleece, grey face mule and lustre fleece, and natural coloured fleece: H M Sutherland.
Sheep champions – Border Leicester: Katie Buchanan (31), Ousdale Farmhouse, on her first visit to the County Show with a Rockvilla ewe. Reserve: A Miller & Sons, Aimster, with a ewe lamb.
Suffolk: B & L Swanson, East Murkle, with a home-bred gimmer after a Maidenstone tup. Reserve: P & E Mackay, Forss.
Half-bred: A Miller & Sons, Aimster, with a March-born ewe lamb by a home-bred tup. Reserve: A Miller & Sons.
Prime lambs: Messrs Sutherland, Sibmister. Reserve: J Campbell & Co, Todholes.
NCC: Messrs D N Campbell & Sons, Bardnaclavan, with the female champion, a gimmer sired by Durran Ace.
Reserve: Messrs D N Campbell & Sons with the male champion, a two-shear tup, Biggins Bravo, bought last year in partnership with Allan Smith, Orkney, for £3000. Sired by Bardnaclavan Warrior.
NCC group champion and reserve: C & I Angus, Oldfield.
Cheviot hill sheep: A Campbell, Mill House, with a two-crop ewe by an Inkstack tup. Reserve: Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust.
Blackface: T H Elder, Auldwell Croft, with a home-bred gimmer, champion blackface at the Latheron Show. Reserve: M Macaskill, Armadale.
Native: Hannah Sinclair (16), Upper Latheron, with Truffles, an Oxford Down shearling ewe, bought as a lamb from the Bennachie flock, rearing its first lamb. Reserve: D A & K Douglas, Achnamoine Farm.
Lleyn: J Campbell & Co, Todholes, with an April born home-bred tup lamb. Reserve: J Campbell & Co.
Commercial: William Barnetson & Sons. Reserve: Messrs Sutherland, Sibmister.
Texel (MV accredited): Angus Gunn, Hill of Forss, with the female champion, a one-crop ewe bought in lamb from Proctors, sired by Sportsman Batman. She is part of an eight ewe flock. Reserve: Jamie Coghill, Burnside, with the male champion, a seven-month-old lamb by Mellor Vale Endeavour.
Texel group champion: A Gunn – ewe lamb, gimmer and shearling. Reserve: C & I Angus, Oldfield.
Texel (non-MV accredited): Bisset and Blackwood, Thorhaven, with a gimmer out of a Milnbank ewe. Reserve: W Mackay, Thurso.
Continental: J & A Budge, Knockglass, with a two-year-old Dutch Spotted tup after Merryboro Cracker. Reserve: E Bain, Kennachy.
HORSES
Clydesdale – Best male, two years and over and Clydesdale in any harness: Isla Miller, East Murkle. Best female, four years and over and best foal, any sex: M Munro, Hollyview, Janetstown.
William Swanson Memorial Trophy for champion Clydesdale, perpetual trophy for best exhibit in the Clydesdale section, St Clair Hotel Perpetual Trophy for the best Clydesdale three years old and under bred in the county, the A M and M J Gow Perpetual Cup for best Clydesdale foal and the Albert Hood Memorial Trophy for the champion Clydesdale: M Munro.
Caithness Clydesdale Horse Breeding Society Perpetual Trophy for the best opposite sex to champion Clydesdale: I Miller.
Horse/pony in-hand section – Best mare with foal at foot: E Gunn, Castletown. Best foal: Sylvia Stewart, Achavrole.
Best three-year-old, filly or gelding: K Lai, Wick. Best two-year-old, filly or gelding: V Shearer, Lythmore. Best yearling, colt, filly or gelding, cob type horse/pony: Skelton and Munro. Arab, part-bred Arab or Anglo Arab: Lisa Kennedy, Halkirk.
Coloured horse/pony: Geraldine Harrold, Wick. Mountain and moorland, four years and over: Fearne McCarthy, Mey. Veteran horse/pony, 15 plus: A Macdonald, Rhanell.
Keiss Perpetual Cup for champion in-hand section and the Cairnfield Perpetual Trophy for the best light-legged yearling: Skelton and Munro.
Wyebank Perpetual Cup for the best mare with foal at foot (mare over 14.2 hands high): E Gunn.
Horse and pony ridden – Cob-type horse/pony, four years and over: Skelton and Munro. Arab, part-bred Arab or Anglo Arab four years and over: I Miller. Coloured horse/pony, four years and over: G Harrold. Mountain and moorland, four years and over: Morven and Liam Mackenzie, Achalone Croft.
Children's leading rein (ponies must be four years and over and not exceed 12 hh) and the Roseberry Perpetual Trophy for the best in lead rein section: Darcey Alexander, Reay.
Best pony, mare or gelding not exceeding 128 centimetres and riders not 13 years before January 1: C Holmes, Halkirk. Best pony, mare or gelding exceeding 128cm but not exceeding 138cm and riders not 15 before January 1: L Kennedy. Best pony, mare or gelding exceeding 138cm but not 148cm and riders not 17 before January 1: Rowan Lee, Halkirk.
Best four-year-old and over, mare or gelding exceeding 148cm but not 158cm: I Miller. Best four-year-old and over mare or gelding over 158cm and the Nicando Memorial Shield for best horse ridden over 158cm: R Sutherland, Watten. Veteran horse/pony, 15 plus: R Lee.
Perpetual trophy for champion ridden horse and James Bruce Memorial Trophy for the champion ridden horse/pony: G Harrold. Stemster Millennium Bug Perpetual Trophy for champion ridden pony: R Lee.
Side saddle class: G Ivey, West Watten.
Perpetual trophy for overall light horse champion: Skelton and Munro.
Highland pony – Best yearling: Margaret MacDonald, Thurso. Best two or three-year-old: J Baikie, Dorrery Farm.
Best over three-year-old gelding and best over three-year-old yeld mare: J Macleod, Upper Dounreay. Best mare with foal at foot and best mare: Leeann Hope, Wester Cottage.
Best ridden Highland, four years old and over: I Miller.
Berriedale Perpetual Trophy for best Highland pony and the Tormore Perpetual Cup for the best registered three-year-old and under: J Baikie.
Roshven Thumbelina Perpetual Cup for the best registered ridden Highland pony: I Miller. Edindurno Perpetual Shield for the best turned out groom and registered Highland pony: J Macleod.
Shetland pony – Best mare with foal at foot and best foal: W&K Campbell, Mid Calder. Best yearling and best filly, two or three years: Hools Shetland Pony Stud, The Brough.
Best yeld mare, four years and over: E &S Dunnet, Lyth. Best gelding: W &K Campbell.
Miniature classes – Best miniature mare with foal at foot, best miniature foal, best miniature yearling and best miniature filly, two or three years, best miniature yeld mare, four years and over and best miniature stallion: Phlair Stud, Conon Bridge. Best miniature gelding: Bethany Swanson, Calder.
Mixed classes – Best coloured Shetland: Phlair Stud. Best ridden Shetland, four years and over, and young handlers class: Hannah Taylor, Mid Calder.
Elizabeth Dunnet Perpetual Trophy for champion Shetland pony, Charles Dunnet Perpetual Trophy for the junior Shetland pony champion, Novice Trophy for best Shetland pony not having won a trophy at a society show and the West of Caithness Landholders Trophy for champion Shetland pony: Hools Shetland Pony Stud.
Campbell Family Shield for the best miniature Shetland pony: Phlair Stud. The Hon Niall Chaplin Perpetual Trophy for the best Shetland pony foal: W & K Campbell.
Perpetual shield for best young handler, 14 years and under: H Taylor. Beinra Perpetual Trophy for best registered coloured Shetland pony: Phlair Stud.
Working hunter – Ponies not exceeding 122 cm and riders not 11 by January 1: Rachel MacGregor, Halkirk. Ponies not exceeding 133 cm and riders not 12 by January 1: Kloe Smith, Thrumster.
Pony never having won a first in novice or higher class at previous County Show: Cerys King, Sordale. Horse never having won a first in novice or higher class at show: V Shearer.
Pony fences maximum 85cm: Lauren Oag, Shebster. Fences max 85cm: Alison Gray, Wick.
Working hunter pony not exceeding 133 cm and riders not 14 before January 1: Leoni Kennedy, Halkirk. WHP exceeding 133 cms but not 143cms and riders not 17 before January 1: E Hewitson, Watten. WHP exceeding 143cm but not 153cm and riders not 20 before January 1: L Oag.
Working hunter (open), horse over 153cm, fences max 1.05m: Emma Coghill, East Clyth.
W D G Morris Perpetual Challenge Cup for best working hunter (open): E Coghill. Eden Garnet Memorial Trophy for winner of the nursery stakes: K Smith. Achalone Trophy for winner of cradle stakes: R MacGregor.
Patricia Mackay Memorial Cup for best novice working hunter: Skelton and Munro. George Budge Memorial Trophy for ridden ponies not exceeding 148cm and rider 15 years and under: Liam Mackenzie.
Show jumping – Junior jumping ponies 12cm and under and riders 12 and under: Erica Pottinger, Castletown. Ponies 138cm and under and riders 14 and under: K Smith.
Show jumping open to horses and ponies height 75 to 80cm: L Oag.
Junior jumping – Ponies up to 148cm and riders 16 and under: C Holmes.
Open jumping, maximum 105cm: E Coghill.
Pony puissance up to 148cm: E Hewitson. Horse puissance over 148cm: E Coghill.
GOATS
Best milker, kid up to one year, male goat, best fibre goat: Robbianne Harrold, Ambervale. Best Pygmy goat: C Lowe, Rampyards, Watten.
Champion goat: R Harrold, best milker. Reserve: C Lowe.
VINTAGE MACHINERY
Self-propelled machine: J Mackenzie, Westfield Farm. M6 Ferguson tractors: James Cormack, Coolvalachy.
Champion: J Mackenzie. Reserve: Don McLeod, Lyth.
INDUSTRIAL
Industrial convener Jacquelene Macleod said: "We're slightly down in entries but we've got some fantastic talent here in Caithness. We've had about 400 entries this year – a bit low in art but other than that, great."
She thought that quite a few of the competitors must have been busy during lockdown and discovering new handicrafts. "We've certainly got entrants this year who have never entered before."
Eggs and dairy – Half-dozen brown hen eggs: Harrison Taylor and Emily Sinclair, Latheron Mains. Half-dozen tinted eggs: Iona and Hamish Warren, Tannach. Half-dozen speckled eggs: Iona and Hamish Warren. Half-dozen duck eggs: Iona and Hamish Warren.
Heaviest hen egg: Samuel Gunn, Lybster, and Yardi Cumming, Oldfield Farm (joint first). Half-dozen any variety not specified in schedule already: Iona and Hamish Warren.
Half-pound of salt butter: Doris Gunn, Ackergill. Half-pound of fresh butter: Doris Gunn. Crowdie: Doris Gunn.
Crannag Perpetual Quaich for most points in egg classes: Iona and Hamish Warren. Caithness Ornithological and Fur Society Cup for best exhibit in egg classes: Harrison Taylor and Emily Sinclair. Reserve: Yardi Cumming.
Lapwood Perpetual Trophy for most points in dairy produce section: Doris Gunn. Best exhibit in dairy section: Doris Gunn.
Art – Line drawing: Shirley Alexander, Sortat, Lyth. Painting in oil: Shirley Alexander. Painting in watercolour: Tamara Sinclair, Nottingham Mains, Latheron. Painting in pastels: Judith Crow, Westfield.
John O'Groats Trophy for best exhibit in art section, classes 40-43: Shirley Alexander. Rowan Bank Perpetual Trophy for best exhibit in the industrial section: Shirley Mackay, Thurso.
Baking and preserves – Three savoury oven scones: Shirley Mackay. Three pancakes: Linda Levack, Mybster. Three butterfly cakes: Shirley Mackay.
Three jammie dodgers: Shirley Mackay. Three raspberry and white chocolate muffins: Shirley Mackay. Lemon drizzle: Donna Allan, Dunbeath.
Coffee sponge with filling: Shirley Mackay. Chocolate stout cake: Zoe Sinclair, Thurso. Swiss roll (jam-filled): Bernadette Begg, Watten.
Individual savoury tart: Bernadette Begg. Small ramekin of salsa: E Buchan, Castletown. Six truffles: Judith Crow, Westfield. Coconut ice: Donna Allan.
Jar of chutney: Michael Spence, Harpsdale. Jar of lemon curd: Lesley Hendry, Thuster. Jar of jam (any fruit): Annie Mackay, Thurso.
Jar of marmalade: Norma Craven, Wick. Jar of sweet and sour sauce: Shirley Mackay. Jar of mint jelly: Anne Mackay.
Nan Budge Perpetual Trophy for most points in baking classes 1-13: Shirley Mackay. Nan Bremner Silver Teapot (perpetual) for best exhibit in baking and preserves classes 1-19: Shirley Mackay.
Best exhibit in baking classes 1-13: Shirley Mackay. Best exhibit in preserves classes 14-19: Annie Mackay.
Society Spoon for most points in preserves classes 14-19: Annie Mackay.
Handicrafts – Trauma teddy: Aileen More, Reiss. Adult's crochet scarf: Lorraine Tait, Wick. Adult's knitted hat: Jill Tilt, Watten.
Twiddle muff: Liz MacDonald, Thurso. Best use of 50g wool: Kimberley Bremner, Wick. Machine-sewn circular cushion cover: Shirley Mackay, Thurso. Machine-sewn tote bag: Jill Tilt. Rag doll (fabric): Christine Sutherland, Ulbster.
Best use of 1m x 1m square of material: Shirley Mackay. Hand-sewn make-up bag: Judith Crow, Westfield. Cross-stitch picture: Christine Sutherland. Embroidered picture: Annie Mackay, Thurso. Picture in felting: Shirley Alexander, Sortat, Lyth.
Get well soon card: Jill Tilt. Item of jewellery: Judith Crow. Wind chime: Jan Falconer, Thurso. 1m of bunting: Shirley Mackay.
Small item in upholstery: Jan Falconer. Fabric brooch: Liz MacDonald. Article in any other craft: Fiona Murdoch, Thurso.
Thurso Townswomen's Guild Perpetual Quaich for most points in handicrafts classes 20-39: Jill Tilt. Perpetual Salver presented by Mrs L Gunn for best exhibit in handicrafts classes 20-39: Fiona Murdoch. Jack and Jean Saxon Perpetual Trophy for best exhibit in handicrafts classes 20-43: Shirley Alexander. Hawkhill Perpetual Trophy for most points in the industrial section: Shirley Mackay (35 points).
Photography – Photograph on a Caithness theme, Caithness tourist attraction: Adam Hendry, Thuster. Action photograph: Karen Gunn, Inverurie. Winter landscape: Lesley Hendry, Thuster.
Four colour photographs on a theme: Liam Bain, Reay. Photograph with caption: Kirsty Robertson. Computer-generated photograph: Virginia Crow.
Perpetual trophy presented by Robert MacDonald, Northern Studios, for best photograph in classes 44-48: Liam Bain. Stemster Cup presented by Mrs C Coghill and family, Stemster Mains, Halkirk, for best exhibit in class 44 (Caithness photograph): Adam Hendry. Best exhibit in photography section (classes 44-49): Liam Bain.
Intermediate – Colour photograph, My Favourite Place: Cameron Mackay, Hill of Forss. Three custard creams: Reece McKellar, Thurso.
Pre-school (under-fives) – Finger painting: William Innes, Stirkoke Mains. Marshmallow animal: Brooke Bain, Aberdeen. Decorated rich tea: Fraser Moodie, Hill of Forss.
Five to eight years – Colour photograph, My Favourite Toy: Sophie Sutherland. Reay. Decorated mask: Iona Warren, Tannach. Three decorated queen cakes: Lauryn Sutherland, Reay.
Nine to 12 years – Colour photograph, Beach Fun: Luke Mackay, Hill of Forss. Lego model: Ella Budge, Knockglass Farm. Three sugar mice: Logan Sutherland, Halkirk.
Society Shield for most points in pre-school section: Brooke Bain. Best exhibit in pre-school section: Fraser Moodie.
Kathryn Mackenzie Shields for most points in junior section – Five to eight years: Lauryn Sutherland and Iona Warren. Nine to 12 years: Logan Sutherland.
Ashcroft Perpetual Shield for most points in junior section and Society Shield: Lauryn Sutherland, Iona Warren and Logan Sutherland.
Best exhibit in junior section – Five to eight years: Lauryn Sutherland. Nine to 12 years: Ella Budge.
Lawrence Perpetual Trophy for most points in intermediate section: Cameron Mackay and Reece McKellar. Granton Mains Perpetual Shield for best exhibit in intermediate section: Reece McKellar. Thurso Camera Club Trophy for best photograph overall (junior and intermediate sections): Sophie Sutherland.
FLOWERS
Flower show convener Avril Henderson said: "We had a great display of flowers considering all the windy weather there has been. We had a great show day with the crowds of folk that were there."
Pot plant trophies – Cup presented by Colin Campbell, Stanstill, for best exhibit in pot plant section: Anne Gunn, Carsgoe. Trophy presented by Joan Condit, Humble, Texas, for most points in pot plant section: Carol Grant, Swiney Hill.
Perpetual Silver Salver presented by the family of the late Mrs I Gunn, Morven, Halkirk, for class 4, begonia rex: Carol Grant. Todholes Salver for best pot of lilies: Anne Gunn. Mrs Gunn, Morven, Trophy for best fuchsia: Carol Grant.
A D Clyne Trophy for best tuberous begonia: Marion Sutherland, Granton Mains. Shield presented by Mr I Coghill, Kirk, for best hanging basket: Isobel Angus, Oldfield Farm. Marion Sutherland, Granton Mains, Trophy for best exhibit in classes 25 and 26: Isobel Angus (patio planter).
Cut flower trophies – Highland Law Practice Trophy for best exhibit in cut flowers: Anne Gunn. Flower Show 40th Anniversary Trophy presented by Mr and Mrs McPherson, Torrabus, for most points in cut flower section: Liam Bain, Reay.
Sharkley Trophy presented by Bina Campbell for class 34 (one container mixed flowering shrubs): Fran Manners, Halkirk. Silver Trophy presented by the late Mrs Kenneth Duff-Dunbar for best exhibit of herbaceous flowers, class 38: Anne Gunn.
Silver Rosebowl presented by the late Jim Smith, Bridge of Wester, for best exhibit of roses, classes 44, 45, 46 and 48: Isobel Mackenzie, Halkirk. Trophy presented by Mrs E Sutherland, Halkirk, for single rose: Isobel Mackenzie.
Floral art trophies – Cup presented by the late Sir Tollemache Sinclair, Bart., of Ulbster, for best exhibit in section 3: Carol Grant. Millennium Trophy presented by Vivienne Williamson for runner-up to best exhibit in section 3: Fiona Levack, Halkirk.
Trophy presented by Gladys Gunn, Lybster, for most points in floral arrangements section (excluding novice section): Fiona Levack. Trophy presented by Helen Smith for class 52, miniature arrangement: Angela Warren, Tannach.
Trophy presented by Caithness Floral Art Club, the Wilma Mackenzie Cup for class 53, Box of Treasures: Fiona Levack. Trophy presented by Muriel Sutherland for class 54, best arrangement of plants and flowers in a container: Carol Grant.
Trophy presented by Caithness Floral Art Club for class 55, Metal and Petal: Fiona Levack. Rosebowl presented by the family of the late Karen Sutherland, Bower, for class 58, Glory of the Garden: Fiona Levack.
Trophy presented by Caithness Agricultural Society for best exhibit in the special section: H Butcher, Dunbeath. Trophy presented by Marion Sutherland, Granton Mains, for best exhibit in intermediate section: Carol Grant. Trophy presented by Caithness Floral Art Club for best exhibit in novice section: Zoe Sinclair, Thurso.
Children's trophies – Trophy presented in memory of Lily Brims for best exhibit in children's section: Mirissa Efemey, Thurso. Shield presented by Christine More, The Fields, Ulbster, for most points in children's section: Neyla Campbell, Thurso.
Shield presented in memory of Andrew Farquhar for best exhibit in section for 10 years and under: Hamish Gunn, Carsgoe.
Trophy presented by Amanda Coghill for best exhibit in class 66, arrangement in your welly boot: Isla Campbell, Halkirk. Trophy presented by the Dunnet family for class 70, miniature show field: Hamish Gunn.
Shield presented by Lorna Gunn for best exhibit in class 72, decorated jubilee hat: Ryan Manson, Thurso. Shield presented by Sheila Moir, Scarfskerry, for best exhibit on class 74, a scarecrow: Heather Leith, Castletown.
Perpetual trophy presented by Barrie Williamson, Clayock, for class 71, arrangement of five handmade flowers: Dawn Hendry, East Mey.
The 30th Anniversary Trophy presented by the Royal Bank of Scotland, Wick, for best exhibit in flower show: Anne Gunn. Sharkley Quaich presented in memory of Bina Campbell, Sharkley, for runner-up to best exhibit in flower show: Carol Grant. Elspeth Sutherland Memorial Trophy presented by her family at Sibmister for overall most points in flower show: Carol Grant.
Pot plants – One begonia, tuberous double: Marion Sutherland, Granton Mains. Begonia rex: Carol Grant. One cactus or succulent: Marion Sutherland. One cactus or succulent in bloom: Janette Swanson, Thurso.
Fuchsia, single: Carol Grant. One geranium, any variety: Marion Sutherland. One fern: Barbara Innes, Stirkoke Mains.
One pelargonium: C M Swanson, Halkirk. One pot foliage plant: Janette Swanson. One gloxinia: Anne Gunn, Carsgoe.
Hanging basket: Isobel Angus, Oldfield Farm. Pot plant, another variety: Isobel Angus. Three pot foliage plants: Carol Grant.
One pot lilies: Anne Gunn. One streptocarpus: Carol Grant. Patio planter: Isobel Angus. Window box: Avril Henderson. Terrarium: Carol Grant. Plant of succulents: Carol Grant.
Cut flowers – Six pansies, shown on a board: Isobel Angus. Six violas, shown on a board: Jack Davidson, Halkirk. Four annuals, mixed: Liam Bain, Reay.
One container mixed flowering shrubs: Fran Manners, Halkirk. For stems pinks: Liam Bain.
Four border carnations: Marion Sutherland. Four spikes sweet william: Fran Manners. One container herbaceous flowers, mixed: Anne Gunn. One container herbaceous flowers, six of one variety: Anne Gunn.
Four iris: Carol Grant. Four delphiniums: Anne Gunn. Any other variety cut flowers: Isobel Angus.
Four roses, hybrid tea: Liam Bain. Three sprays roses: Liam Bain. One container old shrub roses: Fran Manners. Single rose: Isobel Mackenzie, Halkirk. Bowl of roses, any variety: Isobel Mackenzie.
Six stems sweet peas, mixed colour: Jack Davidson. Six stems sweet peas, one colour: Angus Davidson, Halkirk. Four fuchsia blooms, displayed on a board or plate: Carol Grant.
Floral arrangements – Small Wonder: Angela Warren, Tannach. Box of Treasures: F Levack. Pot-et-fleur, arrangement of foliage plants and cut flowers in a container: Carol Grant.
Metal and Petal: Fiona Levack. Arrangement of artificial flowers: Carol Grant. Distilled Delight: Jane Mackenzie. Glory of the Garden: Fiona Levack.
Intermediate section – Summer wreath: Carol Grant. Shades of Green: Laura Manson, Halkirk.
Novice section – Arrangement using glassware: Zoe Sinclair, Thurso. Hand-tied bouquet: Amy Mill, Westfield.
Themed section, Queen's Platinum Jubilee – Crowning Glory: H Butcher, Dunbeath. Royal Banquet: F Levack. Royal Roses: Fiona Levack.
Children’s section, five years and under – Arrangement in your welly boot: Isla Campbell, Halkirk. Decorated crown: Neyla Campbell, Thurso.
Ten years and under – A royal animal made from fruit or veg: Heather Leith, Castletown. Flower arrangement in a toy: Rachel Innes, Stirkoke Mains. Miniature show field: Hamish Gunn.
Fifteen years and under – Arrangement of five purple handmade flowers: Dawn Hendry, East Mey. Decorated jubilee hat, fresh and/or artificial flowers: Ryan Manson, Thurso. The Platinum Jubilee: Mirissa Efemey. Scarecrow – a member of the Royal Family: Heather Leith, Castletown.
SWI
Liz Geddes, SWI convener for the County Show committee, was pleased with the quality of entries from local institutes and emphasised that new members would be made welcome.
"The entries have been excellent and especially the handicrafts," Mrs Geddes said during a brief break from her duties in the SWI tent on Saturday.
"Everything is well displayed. The last show was 2019, so obviously we're really pleased to be back."
Mrs Geddes pointed out that some institutes in Caithness had fallen by the wayside, leaving 13 – Banniskirk, Berriedale, Bower, Harpsdale, Keiss, Killimster, Latheron, Lybster, Mid-Clyth, Murkle, Spittal, Thrumster and Watten.
"Unfortunately we have lost institutes, because of one thing or another, which means fewer members," she said. "I think lockdown had a bit to answer for because of the fact that the older members are more cautious about coming out at night again.
"Some have gone on to afternoon meetings, but then that doesn't encourage the younger ones if they are working."
Mrs Geddes added: "There have been ladies who have come in here who have asked where their nearest institute is. We've had people showing interest, so that's good, and certainly we do need the younger folk.
"If you're not very good at crafts that doesn't really matter because you can learn as you go along and have a bit of fun."
SWI trophies from the show will be presented at a coffee morning in Wick Assembly Rooms on Saturday, August 27.
Baking – Coffee and walnut cake: Lynn Hendry, Latheron. Four tattie scones: Joanna Mackay, Murkle. Four bakewell slices: Meg MacGill, Thrumster.
Two Cornish pasties: Meg MacGill, Thrumster. Fruit loaf: Fran Manners, Banniskirk. Four white chocolate and pecan blondies: E Buchan, Murkle.
2lb gingerbread loaf: Joanna Mackay, Murkle. Four decorated iced biscuits: Julie Murray, Killimster. Four red velvet cupcakes: Lorna Swanson, Bower.
Jar of piccalilli: Lynn Hendry, Latheron. Six coconut ice pieces: Lynn Hendry, Latheron. Cold dessert in a wine glass: Jean Barrington, Thrumster.
Novice baking – Four jam tarts: Rhiannon Cormack, Thrumster. Intermediate baking – Four blueberry muffins: Rhiannon Cormack, Thrumster.
Handicrafts – Knitted Fair Isle item: Lis Lavery, Killimster. Knitted child's garment: Jeanette Coghill, Killimster. Crochet granny organiser: Lorraine Tait, Thrumster.
Crochet pram cover: Alison Sutherland, Harpsdale. Hand-sewn doorstop: Lorraine Tait, Thrumster.
Machine-sewn pet bed: Meg MacGill, Thrumster.
Art – Textile picture: Lorraine Tait, Thrumster. Birdlife painting: Mary Sinclair, Bower. Cushion with hand embroidery: Lynn Hendry, Latheron.
Advent calendar: Alison Sutherland, Harpsdale. Three keyrings: Janet Corbett, Murkle.
Novice handicrafts – Crochet amigurumi item: Carol Martin, Bower. Intermediate handicrafts – Mug rug: Shannon Martin, Bower.
Juniors baking – Individual decorated Christmas cake: Mirissa Efemey, Killimster. Four pieces of fudge: Iona Simpson, Killimster.
Juniors handicrafts – Item using lollipop sticks: Mirissa Efemey, Killimster. Florentine embroidered pin cushion: Sarah Begg, Thrumster.
Lockdown handicrafts – Item in wool: Lorraine Tait, Thrumster. Item in fabric: Alison Sutherland, Harpsdale. Any craft: Lorraine Tait, Thrumster.
Junior lockdown handicrafts – Item in wool: Sarah Begg, Thrumster. Item in fabric: Sarah Begg, Thrumster. Any craft: Iona Simpson, Killimster.
Trophies – Overall institute points: 1 Thrumster, 286 (Mary C MacKenzie Challenge Trophy); 2 Latheron, 190 (Lieurary Challenge Cup); 3 Murkle, 127 (Latheron Cup); 4 Killimster, 114 (Shebster Trophy); 5 Bower, 92 (Mrs A Bremner Shield).
Mrs Cormack Cup, institute with most points in handsewing and hand embroidery: Thrumster, 19. The Lady Jessamine Vase, institute with most points in baking: Latheron, 108. Bremner Cup, institute under 20 members with most points in handicrafts and baking: Thrumster, 286. Silver Tray, institute with most points in co-op section: Murkle, 53.
Cathy Miller Trophy for best exhibit in co-op section: Alison Miller, Murkle. Elaine Mackenzie Trophy for runner-up to best exhibit in co-op section: Janet Corbett, Murkle.
Whaligoe Cup for member with most points in handicrafts and baking: Meg MacGill, Thrumster, 76 points. Silver Trophy for member with most points in handicrafts section: Meg MacGill, 41 points. Gladys Gunn Cup for runner-up to most points in handicrafts section: Lorraine Tait, Thrumster, 36 points.
Bilbster Challenge Trophy for best exhibit in handicrafts: A Sutherland, Harpsdale. Rosebowl for member with most points in knitting (sections 1 and 2): Jeanette Coghill, Killimster, 9 points. Lily Mackay Memorial Trophy for best exhibit in hand knitting (sections 1 and 2): Lis Lavery, Killimster.
Julian May Mackay Memorial Trophy for best exhibit in crochet (section 3 and 4): A Sutherland, Harpsdale.
Josephine D Gunn Cup for member with most points in hand sewing and hand embroidery (sections 5 and 9): Meg MacGill, Thrumster.
Ethel Jack Cup for best exhibit in hand sewing and hand embroidery (sections 5 and 10): Lynn Hendry, Latheron. Singer Sewing Machine Company Trophy for most points in machine sewing (section 6): Meg MacGill, Thrumster.
Silver Tray for member with most points in baking section: Lynn Hendry, Latheron, 51 points.
Nicola Sinclair Shield for runner-up in baking section: Meg MacGill, Thrumster, 35 points.
McCallum Rose Bowl for best exhibit in baking section: Fran Manners, Banniskirk. Silver Tray for intermediate baking: Rhiannon Cormack, Thrumster. Silver Tray for intermediate handicrafts: Shannon Martin, Bower.
Janet Corbett Cup for most points in novice section: Carol Martin, Bower, and Rhiannon Cormack, Thrumster, 7 points. Margaret Mackenzie Trophy for junior with most points in baking section: Iona Simpson and Mirissa Efemey, both Killimster, 13 points.
Margaret Rodger Cup for junior with most points in handicrafts and baking: Mirissa Efemey, Killimster, 26 points. Margaret Rodger Trophy for junior with most points in handicrafts section: Mirissa Efemey, Killimster, 13 points.
Emily Fraser Trophy for best exhibit in art (sections 7 and 8): Mary Sinclair, Bower. Dolly Mowat Trophy for best cake in show (section 1): Lynn Hendry, Latheron. Liz Malcolm Cup for most points in crochet (sections 3 and 4): Alison Sutherland, Harpsdale.
DOGS
Dog show steward Donna Mackay said: "We were blessed with a decent day weather-wise and a record entry in the dog show. This year we had 88 dogs entered, making an entry of 216 over 15 classes."
Judge Sam Mackay from Castletown said: "I show my own dog and this is my first time actually judging a show. We had a lot of good-quality dogs and there were some breeds that I didn't expect to see here today. Overall, it has been a really good show."
Pedigree classes: – Any variety puppy 6-12 months: Gail Simpson, John O’Groats, Hungarian Vizsla. Any variety veteran seven years and over: Jennifer Cowie, Wick, Cocker Spaniel. Any variety terrier: Mari Hamilton, Latheron, Skye terrier.
Any working or pastoral: Ailsa Bogle, Glasgow, Alaskan Malamute. Any variety gun dog: Rachael Gunn, Halkirk, GSP. Any variety utility: Isobel Wilson, Halkirk, German Spitz.
Any variety toy: Zoe Sinclair, Thurso, Papillon. Any variety hound: Kirsty Robertson, Thurso, whippet.
Best in show: Jennifer Cowie, Cocker Spaniel. Reserve best in show: Gail Simpson, Hungarian Vizsla. Best puppy in show: Gail Simpson, Hungarian Vizsla.
OTHER RESULTS
Driving turnouts: Isla Miller, East Murkle.
Trade stands – Northern Quality Produce marquee: Marks and Pencils. Non-agricultural trade stand: Gow Groundworks (reserve best exhibit). Agricultural trade stand: Alexander and Robertson Ltd (champion best exhibit).
Caithness HAS Got Talent: Kirsten Gough (Chord Overstreet's Hold On).
