CATTLE entries for a flagship dairy event taking place in Carlisle in the spring are now open.

With an international line-up of renowned judges to cast their eyes over each and every animal, it is expected that in the region of 500 head of dairy cattle will be in the ring at this year's Harrison & Hetherington's Borderway UK Dairy Expo

Now into its second decade, this important industry event and spring showcase attracts a live audience of around 7,000, with people also tuning in from across the globe to the livestreaming service which was launched last year.

Attracting some of the top genetics in the world, the show classes of dairy cattle and young stock are held across seven breed sections - Holstein, Ayrshire, Jersey, Dairy Shorthorn, Red and White, British Friesian and Brown Swiss. Judges include Nathan Thomas from North Lewisburgh, Ohio, will judging the Holstein classes, and his wife Jennifer Thomas, will judge the Red & White, Jersey, and Ayrshire classes. Duncan Hunter, from Hertfordshire, will judge the National British Friesian Show and Dairy Shorthorn classes; and Tom Lomas from Derbyshire, will judge the International Showmanship Show.

Application forms for the event which is taking place on Friday and Saturday March 10 and 11 are available on the event’s dedicated website – www.borderwaydairyexpo.uk

Glyn Lucas, Senior Pedigree Dairy Auctioneer at H&H, said: “Borderway UK Dairy Expo has become one of the UK’s most important and spectacular annual shows of dairy cattle, with entries from some of the most noted breeders in the country. This is a hugely competitive event, and we have the most eminent line up of judges who bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience.

“As part of this event we also bring together businesses who service the dairy industry giving them the opportunity to showcase the latest industry developments - whether that be machinery, genetics, equipment – to those keeping the cogs moving on farm. Understandably, everyone here at Harrison & Hetherington is looking forward to another tremendous event which we organise specifically for this important farming sector, the dairy industry.

The closing date for trade applications and cattle entries is Friday, February10.