Staffordshire County Show

“At last a show to report on!”

- Sue Bruton & Peter Wahl

Staffordshire county showground hosted, we believe, the first poultry and egg show of 2017, as well as the Federation - the final show of 2016, which was a memorable coincidence.

After much speculation as to wether our show would take place at all, the ban was finally lifted ten days before… which resulted in jubilation all round.

Extending the closing date by a week gave exhibitors a little more time, thereby making the final entries 568; 140 of which were eggs, a few less than usual, but more than many people expected in the circumstances. Having to keep birds under cover (mostly indoors) exhibitors expressed relief at finally being able to get to a show, meeting other fanciers and their birds. We probably have all felt rather isolated for the last few months and it made the day that little more special!

Our champion judges came from far and wide, and were equally pleased to get out. The championship judge made the journey from the Scottish borders. He selected a Rumpless Game female belonging to DE Gore as champion, and it was nice to see a rare breed getting top honours. Reserve went to Mr Peter Durber’s Oxford cock.

Richard Bett and his wife from Lincolnshire gave the large soft feather award to an impressive Gold Brahma entered by South Staffordshire College. Judging the rare breeds Richard gave best large to a Thuringian belonging to Sam Angell, a new exhibitor to Stafford show. Ian Simpson judged the soft feather bantams and gave the best light to Mrs J McKeatings’ very tame Araucana. The best soft feather bantam was a Black Australorp from M Austin's stud.