Highland cows and Haflingers in line-up (From Western Telegraph)

Highland cows and Haflingers in line-up

Organisers of the United Counties Show in Carmarthen, which takes place next Wednesday and Thursday, have lined up new classes and a new entrance for showgoers.

As well as a fine display of dairy and beef cattle, pigs and sheep, there are over 1,000 entries in the horse classes. Exhibits will include everything ranging from the needs of commercial agriculture to items used by those enjoying a country lifestyle.

The 90-acre showground has a new multi-million pound entrance, including a flyover bridge over the A40. Entry will be further speeded up by a new system of pay booths at the main entrance.

The main entertainment this year consists of 'Horsemen of the Apocalypse' - a dramatic stunt riding team.

Entries to all animal classes are up on previous years and it suggests that the problems encountered by exhibitors with restrictions on animal movements following the problems of the last few years have at last been overcome.

New classes introduced this year include Highland cattle, Belgian Blues and 'other pure beef breeds' split into British and continental classes.

For the horses, there is a new class for the Haflinger and the cute miniature horses will return this year along with two additional side-saddle classes. The United Counties show is classified as a silver medal show and so is a qualifier for entry into other national events for those interested in equine.

It has been a good growing season, organisers expect to see the Horticulture Pavilion as popular as ever.