THE curtain came down on the district’s show calendar in Rochester last weekend, and nobody was going to let a few showers of rain dampen proceedings.

For the Upper Redesdale Show had everything last Saturday, from children’s sports to creative culinary delights.

But the show’s bread and butter has always been sheep, and there was an impressive offering from farmers in both Blackface and Scotch type categories.

Willie Weatherson, of Edges Green, Haltwhistle, was Blackface champion with a ewe lamb which had already enjoyed success at this summer’s Northumberland County Show.

Mr Weatherson said: “She is a sharp, bright sheep, with lovely clean black and white features.

“She is out of a Croft House gimmer by a Wanwood Hill tup, and has done very well this year.”

Scotch type champion was Steven Mackay, of Dudlees, Otterburn. He said: “This is a ewe lamb Blackface Scotch, a very nice, sweet, sharp lamb and that’s what impressed the judges.

“But it must be said that the quality here has been very good, and to win is always a bonus.”

The dog show proved a popular attraction, with Border terriers and collies among the breeds represented, while sheepdog trials took place throughout the day.

In the industrial section, it was a good day for husband and wife Jim and Kathy Scott, of Otterburn. Jim won most points in the vegetable section, while Kathy clocked up most points in the baking category.

Otterburn’s Vera Scott overcame a difficult growing season to score most points in the flower section. She also won the knitting prize.

It was a memorable day for Katie Rogerson (6) and her brother Jake Rogerson (3), of Rochester.

Katie won the challenge plaque for girls under nine years with her home-made model house, using berries, acorns, and other creative ingredients, while Jake won the pre-school prize for his fruit and vegetable sheep.