National Show
16th National Show 2027
The 2027 National Show will be held at Royal Norfolk Show
15th National Show 2026
The 2026 National Show was held at Royal Three Counties Show on 12th-14th June
South Devon National Show 2026
A Showcase of Excellence at Royal Three Counties
The South Devon National Show returned to the Royal Three Counties Showground in June and once again proved why it remains one of the most anticipated events in the Society calendar. Bringing together exhibitors, members, supporters and visitors from across the UK and beyond, the event provided a fantastic showcase for the breed, both in the show ring and across the wider showground.
As cattle began arriving throughout the week, there was a real sense of excitement building around the South Devon lines. The National Show is much more than a competition; it is an opportunity for breeders to come together, catch up with friends old and new, celebrate successes and showcase the very best of the breed to the wider agricultural community.
This year’s National Show was expertly judged by Mrs Anne Tully, who was presented with strong classes throughout the day. The quality on display reflected the continued progress being made within South Devon herds across the country and provided spectators with an excellent display of cattle combining breed character, functionality and performance.
The social programme got underway on Thursday evening with the now much-anticipated burger night. Fast becoming a National Show tradition, the evening offers the perfect opportunity for members, exhibitors and visitors to come together, catch up with friends old and new and settle into the weekend ahead. With cattle prepared, stalls set up and judging just around the corner, it was a relaxed and enjoyable start to what would prove to be a fantastic few days for the South Devon breed.
Friday morning saw South Devon judging commence, with strong crowds gathered ringside from the outset. The male section immediately demonstrated the quality and depth currently being produced within the breed. Leading the way was the impressive Z Beckaveans Bardhesow, exhibited by Mr Kevin Finch. The senior bull caught the eye of the judge with his power, correctness and exceptional breed character, securing the Senior Male Championship before going on to claim the Overall Male Championship.
Standing Reserve Male Champion was the widely admired Trewint Senator, exhibited by PS and AP Rowe. Having already enjoyed a successful show season, Senator once again demonstrated the qualities that have made him a consistent performer throughout the year.
The younger bulls also attracted considerable attention. The Junior Male Championship was awarded to Trewint Chester, exhibited by PS and AP Rowe, after a commanding performance in the 2025-born bull class. Reserve Junior Male Champion honours went to Tregarrick Pencubitt from the Tregarrick herd of Nigel and Elizabeth Bunkum.
The female section was equally impressive, with outstanding cattle presented across every age group. The future of the breed was evident in the junior classes, where the Tregarrick herd dominated proceedings. Tregarrick Peebles secured the Junior Female Championship, with Tregarrick Paris standing Reserve Junior Female Champion, giving Nigel and Elizabeth Bunkum an exceptional result in one of the strongest classes of the day.
In the senior female section, Trewint Mary 102, exhibited by PS and AP Rowe, impressed Judge Anne Tully with her combination of femininity, power and maternal quality. She was awarded Senior Female Champion before going on to secure the Overall Female Championship. Reserve Female Champion honours were awarded to Tregarrick Olympia, another outstanding exhibit from the Tregarrick herd, following her success in the 2024-born heifer class.
As the championships drew to a close, attention turned to the ultimate honours of the day. Following careful consideration, Anne Tully selected Z Beckaveans Bardhesow as Breed Champion, with Trewint Senator taking the title of Reserve Breed Champion. Both animals represented the quality, functionality and breed character that continue to make South Devons one of Britain’s leading native beef breeds.
The success of South Devon cattle did not end with the breed judging. As the interbreed competitions commenced, South Devon exhibitors continued to demonstrate the strength and competitiveness of the breed against some of the finest cattle from across the beef industry.
Friday evening saw members, exhibitors and guests come together for a hugely successful Hog Roast and Presentation Evening, which proved to be one of the social highlights of the weekend. Following an exciting day of judging and championship success, the event provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate achievements in and around the show ring whilst enjoying good food and even better company. The atmosphere was fantastic, with an excellent turnout creating a real buzz throughout the evening. Prize presentations allowed exhibitors to be recognised for their successes, while members from across the country and overseas visitors enjoyed the chance to catch up, share stories from the day and strengthen the friendships that make the South Devon community so special. The evening perfectly captured the spirit of the National Show, bringing together people with a shared passion for the breed and providing a fitting celebration of another successful day at Royal Three Counties.
One of the standout moments of the entire weekend came when Trewint Chester, exhibited by PS and AP Rowe, was selected as Supreme Junior Beef Animal. Having already secured the Junior Male Championship in the breed section, Chester impressed the interbreed judges and stood at the head of an outstanding line-up of young cattle from across all beef breeds. To secure such a prestigious title at a major national show was a tremendous achievement and a fitting reward for the quality of the young bull.
Further success followed for Mr Kevin Finch’s exceptional Beckaveans Bardhesow. Fresh from securing the Breed Championship, he continued his remarkable run by being awarded Reserve Champion Native Animal in the Native Interbreed Championship. Competing against champions from other native breeds, this accolade underlined the outstanding quality and breed character of a bull that enjoyed a truly memorable National Show.
The interbreed success continued in the group competitions, where Nigel and Elizabeth Bunkum secured Reserve Champion Native Interbreed Group of Three. This result was particularly rewarding as it recognised not only the quality of individual animals but also the consistency and strength of breeding across the entire herd. To stand amongst the very best native breed groups at one of the country’s leading agricultural shows was a tremendous achievement and a credit to the family’s long-standing commitment to South Devon cattle.
These interbreed successes provided a powerful demonstration of the breed’s ability to compete at the highest level and highlighted the quality being produced by South Devon breeders across the country. They were undoubtedly among the highlights of the weekend and gave members plenty of reason to celebrate.
Away from the show ring, the Society’s trade stand enjoyed a highly successful weekend, attracting plenty of interest from visitors keen to learn more about the South Devon breed. Promoting the breed’s many strengths and the Society’s ongoing work, the stand proved a valuable focal point throughout the show. The efforts of everyone involved were recognised with the award of a Bronze Trade Stand Award, a fantastic achievement and fitting reward for the hard work and dedication of the team
The Society would like to extend its sincere thanks to Anne Tully for her expertise and dedication in judging the National Show. Thanks must also go to the exhibitors whose commitment and support continue to make the event possible, as well as the stewards, volunteers, sponsors and Royal Three Counties Show team who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
The 2026 National Show will be remembered not only for the exceptional quality of cattle on display, but also for the remarkable success achieved in the interbreed ring, the warm and welcoming social programme and the recognition of the Society’s promotional efforts through its Bronze Trade Stand Award.
As exhibitors headed home following another memorable weekend, there was a genuine sense of pride in what had been achieved. The National Show once again demonstrated the strength of the South Devon breed, the dedication of its breeders and the vibrant community that continues to drive the Society forward. With such quality on display throughout the weekend, the future of the breed looks brighter than ever.
14th National Show 2025 Report
South Devon Cattle Shine at The Moreton Show
Judged by Mr Colin Edwards of Tavistock, the South Devon cattle classes at The Moreton Show once again drew an excellent entry, with 67 head forward across the sections. This strong turnout reflected both the popularity of the breed and the dedication of its breeders. Exhibitors from across the country brought forward animals of outstanding conformation, growth and breed character, ensuring stiff competition across all age groups.
The South Devon is renowned for its combination of size, temperament and maternal ability, and the 2025 show was no exception. From the youngest calf to the most experienced cow, the ringside audience was treated to a fine display of what the breed has to offer.
Bulls Born in 2022 or 2023
The older bull section set the tone for the day. Taking first place and later crowned Male Champion was Tregarrick Mylor, exhibited by Mr K Finch. A striking bull of real presence, Mylor impressed the judge with his scale, muscling and correctness of frame. His easy movement and ring presence confirmed him as a standout exhibit, and it was no surprise to see him progress all the way to Breed Champion later in the day.
Standing in second place, and later lifting the Reserve Male Championship, was Knowlhill Taurus, from Messrs A E & F J Claridge. Another well-grown bull with plenty of stretch, Taurus pushed hard for top honours and was described by the judge as “a young sire with great potential for the future.”
The remainder of the class also displayed plenty of quality. Trewint Senator (Messrs P S & A P Rowe) claimed third, showing length and strength through the topline. Pytchley Figaro, another from the Finch stable, stood fourth, while Eyton Inquisitive, from Mr Richard Hartshorn, completed the line-up in fifth.
Bulls Born in 2024
The younger bull class also proved competitive, with entries forward from several leading herds. The winner here was Trewint Prosper, bred and exhibited by Messrs P S & A P Rowe. A bull of excellent shape and character, Prosper caught the judge’s eye for his balance and potential, combining breed character with style.
Grove Croesus, from Grove Farms, followed in second, a strong and upstanding bull who will surely mature into a top-class sire. In third place was Tregarrick Orlando, exhibited by Mr & Mrs Nigel and Elizabeth Bunkum, a stylish youngster with good locomotion. Grove Darius, also from Grove Farms, stood fourth, while Foxhole Churchill, exhibited by Mrs M A Plain, claimed fifth.
Heifers Born in 2024
Attention then turned to the younger heifers, where the judge awarded the red rosette to Tregarrick Olympia, from the Bunkum family. Olympia combined femininity with strength, and her correctness carried her right through to the coveted title of Female Champion later in the day.
Grove Buttercup 220 was close behind in second place, an elegant and eye-catching heifer from Grove Farms. Ernford Bella, exhibited by Mr Jonathan McInnes Skinner, took third, showing plenty of breed character. Completing the line-up were Grove Columbine 29 (fourth) and Hopton Ruby from Messrs J G Williams & Son in fifth.
Heifers Born in 2023
The older heifer section brought forward some outstanding animals. Taking first place was Grove Sorrell 129, from Grove Farms, who later stood Reserve Female Champion. She impressed with her scope, depth and balance, demonstrating the maternal strength the breed is famous for.
Knowlhill Rosemary, from the Claridge family, was placed second, another promising heifer with plenty of style. Trevowah Hyacinth 3, exhibited by Mr Tim Eustice, took third, while Ernford Anya and Ernford Annelise, both from the Skinner herd, filled fourth and fifth places respectively.
Cows and Heifers Born in 2022
The cow and heifer classes highlighted the breed’s longevity and maternal ability. Topping the section was Grove Primrose 88, a powerful heifer from Grove Farms who showed strength and style in equal measure. Trevowah Cowslip 2, exhibited by Mr Tim Eustice, followed in second, with Tregarrick Montana from the Bunkums in third. Foxhole Calla 10 (Mrs M A Plain) and Cilgwrrwg Holly (Mr Martin Clemens) completed the placings.
Cows Born on or Before 31st December 2021
The mature cow section always draws interest, showcasing proven females with calves at foot. Trewint Jill 630, from Messrs P S & A P Rowe, topped the class demonstrating power, depth and soundness. Coton Izzy 17, exhibited by Mr Chris Page, was placed second, while Beckaveans Bridie 5 (Mrs Ada Brooks) took third. Grove Primrose 83, another from Grove Farms, completed the line-up in fourth.
Calves Born in 2025
The future of the breed was well represented in the calf class. Grove Primrose 100, from Grove Farms, secured first place, a calf of great promise and style. Coton, from Mr Chris Page, followed in second, while Penrose Stonehedging Holly, exhibited by Mr Martin Clemens, stood third. Pytchley Hercules, from Mr K Finch, was placed fourth, with Tregarrick Pheonix, another from the Bunkums, in fifth.
Championships
With the individual classes completed, the championships brought the best of the day forward.
- Male Champion: Tregarrick Mylor (Mr K Finch)
- Reserve Male Champion: Knowlhill Taurus (Messrs A E & F J Claridge)
- Female Champion: Tregarrick Olympia (Mr & Mrs Nigel & Elizabeth Bunkum)
- Reserve Female Champion: Grove Sorrell 129 (Grove Farms)
Finally, the supreme award of the day:
- Breed Champion: Tregarrick Mylor (Mr K Finch)
- Reserve Breed Champion: Knowlhill Taurus (Messrs A E & F J Claridge)
The South Devons also flew the flag proudly in the wider competition, securing the Reserve Interbreed Championship, a fine achievement against strong opposition from other beef breeds.
Young Handlers
The next generation of stockmen and women also had their chance to shine. In a well-supported young handler competition, Flo Claridge came out on top, impressing the judge with her confident handling and quiet stockmanship. Her win was warmly received at ringside and demonstrated the strength of youth involvement within the South Devon breed.
Closing Remarks
The Moreton Show once again highlighted the strength in depth within the South Devon breed. With a good entry of 67 cattle, the standard throughout was a credit to the exhibitors and breeders involved. From stylish calves and heifers through to powerful bulls and proven cows, the quality forward was exceptional.
Judge Mr Colin Edwards was full of praise for the animals, noting that classes were well supported and full of stock with potential to make their mark in pedigree and commercial herds alike.
Particular congratulations go to Mr K Finch, whose bull Tregarrick Mylor dominated proceedings, taking both Male and Breed Championships. Equally, the Bunkum family can be proud of their heifer Tregarrick Olympia, whose style and femininity earned her the Female Championship.
With the added success of Flo Claridge in the Young Handlers and the South Devons securing Reserve in the Interbreed, the breed had plenty to celebrate. With strong support from established herds such as Grove Farms, Messrs P S & A P Rowe, the Claridges, and others, alongside entries from newer breeders, the South Devon breed society can look to the future with confidence.
The 2025 Moreton Show will be remembered for its depth of quality, good entry numbers, strong youth involvement, and success beyond the breed classes – a true celebration of this great native breed.
13th National Show 2024
Royal Cornwall Show
12th National Show 2023
Royal Three Counties Show, 16th-18th June 2023
Returning to Malvern after 11 years the weather conditions for this year’s National Show could not have been more different. In 2012 we were faced with seemingly continuous rain, and the mud was almost knee deep in places in the show ring. This time the weather was fine, even too warm for some, and the South Devon coats gleamed in the bright light.
It was a fine show of quality South Devon cattle right across all the classes. Watching over the ring was our breed marquee offering shade and refreshments. Thank you to the organisers at the Royal Three Counties, particularly Henry Oakes, Alan Lyons and Samantha Jones who worked with us to put together the detail of the show and provided a very warm welcome.
Judge for the day was Mr Roger Rundle from Newquay whose Kestle breeding has been widely used across the South Devon population.
Beginning with the nine youngest heifers born in 2022, Roger picked his first class winner as N & E Bunkum’s Tregarrick Montana by Trewint Invincible. The best heifer born in 2021 in a class of ten was C J Page’s Lumbylaw Avril 193, acquired at Robert Lee’s herd dispersal sale in July 2022. This heifer went on to win the Female Championship, with M R & R J Rowe’s Tregondale Ninon 107 as Reserve.
In the two cow classes, the judge again selected his winners from the Tregarrick herd, Tregarrick Katkins also by Trewint Invincible, and Tregarrck Genie by Langham’s Louis 2. Best calf was Tim Eustice’s Trevowah Hyacinth 3, by Trevean Arranz and out of Trevowah Hyacinth 2.
In the male section of the judging, a very strong class of twelve was won by Reuben Saunders’ Boakley Tiberius, a March-’22 born son of award-winning Grove Brutus 151. Tiberius also won the Performance and Inspection class, with reserve going to E G & S M Hawkins’ Cutsey Domitian. Both bulls demonstrated their excellent record of performance figures carrying through to their conformation.
The intermediate bull class was won by N & E Bunkum’s Tregarrick Lydford born in January 2021 who was to go on to become Reserve Breed Champion.
The highest accolade of the breed judging was awarded to West Prawle Farm’s AI Z Providence Dr Octopus who showed himself beautifully to impress the judge, spectators and fellow exhibitors. He scooped the Male Championship and then the Breed Championship. As the pin-up promotional bull used by the Devon County Show in 2022 this was a very fitting win, and with his breeding going back across the world to John Harvey’s Torr Down Hermes Marvel 3, it made good sense that Dr Octopus should also win Best Polled Animal, receiving the Harvey Torr Down Perpetual Trophy.
The Awards Dinner was held in the evening of the first day, and South Devon beef produced by Hadley Farms was very much enjoyed by all. The following day saw the staging of the Young Handler Competition for 11-15 year olds which this time was won by Oliver from Arncliffe Farms in Yorkshire, with runners-up Peter and Rhys from Bredon School.
The biggest success for the breed came on the final day when the Interbreed Group of Three comprising two heifers, Tregondale Ninon 107 and Tregondale Dewdrop 187, and two year old bull Tregarrick Lydford were awarded the Best Native Group Championship, and Best Overall Group Championship beating all other breeds. It was a moment of great excitement, satisfaction and pride for all who watched. How fitting that they should then lead the final Grand Parade in the main ring!