Young livestock handlers are being invited to join a league so that they can compete for a cash prize.

The Young Handlers Series organised by Mole Valley Farmers is open to young stock handlers aged 12 and under on the first January 2018. It features sheep, beef and dairy categories and aims to nurture the next generation of young farmers.

Children placed first, second or third at participating shows in the Young Handler Series will be allotted points throughout the season. The competition culminates at Holsworthy and Stratton Show on August 23. The qualifying shows are:

Saturday July 14 – Liskeard

Thursday July 26 – Launceston

Monday July 30– Woolsery

Wednesday August 1 – North Devon

Wednesday August 8 – Camelford

Thursday August 9 – Okehampton

Friday August 17 – Dunster

At Holsworthy and Stratton Show, there will be the overall special presentation to the children with the top three scores for the series. Each winner receives a cup and sash plus £100 of Mole Valley Farmers vouchers, £50 for second place and £25 for third place.

Phoebe Downton, who is based at Mole Valley Farmers’ Holsworthy store, runs the series. She said: “We were over whelmed with the number of children who participated in our initial Young Handlers Series in 2017 and as the summer went on, it seemed to become more and more popular. Livestock shows are a great way for farmers to show the public the cream of their flocks or herds and children can participate at a surprisingly young age. Showing seems to be a real family affair, as generations get involved in the breeding, training, preparing and 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!”