MOLE Valley Farmers is launching an exciting new competition, which is open to young stock handlers in the Post area.

The young stock handlers must be aged 12 and under from January 1.

There will be automatic entry for sheep, beef and dairy categories, for children entering the ‘Young Handler’ classes, at Liskeard Show on July 8, Woolsery Show on July 31, Launceston Show on July 27, North Devon Show on August 2, Okehampton Show on August 10, and Holsworthy and Stratton Show on August 24.

Points will be accumulated at each show in the series. First prize will equal three points, second prize is worth two points and third prize is one point.

At the final show — Holsworthy and Stratton Show — there will be a special presentation to the children with the top three marks.

The winner will receive a cup and sash, plus £100 vouchers, £50 for second place and £25 for third place.

Phoebe Downton and Gemma Smale-Rowland, who are both based at Mole Valley Farmers’ Holsworthy store, thought up the idea of the series.

Phoebe said: “We know that to lots of farming families, summer means the show season. They invest many hours preparing their stock, with children participating at a surprisingly young age. Often three generations of the same family will be involved in the breeding, training, preparing and finally showing of animals. Success in the show ring can also help secure higher prices when other stock from the farm sells at market, so it is a very practical hobby!”