FARMERS from across the country flocked to Westpoint Arena to trade, share ideas and compete in the prestigious livestock competitions at Agrifest last week.

The event coincided with the #BackBritishFarming, a national day organised by the National Farmers’ Union to promote members’ needs to politicians.

There were over 150 livestock entries across over 50 different classes, with some of the best primestock and pedigree cattle and sheep in the UK.

But a highlight for many was the mouth-watering steak and burger awards, in which saw the Westcountry’s top butchers and delis go head to head in search of the best beef in the region.

Deborah Custance-Baker, Chair of the Agricultural Association, said: ‘It’s gone really really well, there such an excellent display of cattle. You don’t see this level of quality in cattle anywhere but here. Farmers have come from Cornwall to Northumberland to show off what they’ve been rearing.

‘And it’s also a great time for the community to get together. At certain points, farming can be lonely, but here the community can all come together under one roof. They were all out, putting the world right until late last night and they’re all still here today.

‘This event is much more for farmers to trade and meet, it brings farmers and agricultural business together. There’s also lectures, talks and discussions about where farming should go next.’

‘One of my favourite parts of the day is our steak and burger competition, where we can see and taste the hard work of Devon’s farming industry!’

Alongside the competition, there were over 50 agricultural business stands from a varied range of local and national companies, showcasing new and innovative products and services. 

Debating panels looked at where the future of livestock farming lay in the wake of the climate crisis and how renewable energy could play a part across the agricultural sector.

There were also talks from local keynote speakers such as farming specialist Luppo Diepenbroek, farmer and businessman Andy Gray and Biogeochemist Professor Tom Misslebrook.

Tom Hammett, President of the Devon County Agricultural Association, said: ‘It is tremendous to see an entry of circa 150 pedigree and commercial cattle and the commercial sheep classes have been very well supported.

‘As well as the showing classes, visitors can get the latest advice on beef and sheep production from the huge range of specialist trade stand exhibitors. From the latest and largest front loader to advice on breeding genetics, Agrifest has it all.

‘On behalf of Agrifest I thank all of you, whether you are a sponsor, livestock or trade exhibitor, or visitor.

‘I wish to acknowledge the commitment of our voluntary stewards and the Agrifest Committee members and staff, without whom this event would not happen. A big heartfelt thank you to everyone.’