This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Devon and Cornwall Longwool Flock Association, which was founded in 1977.

The association holds the studbook for the breed and promotes the breeding and rearing of Devon and Cornwall Longwool sheep, which are popular throughout the South West.

The coming together of two dwindling local sheep breeds saw the association's formation which heralded a brighter future for the breed.

Deborah Custance Baker, association secretary, said: "In 1977 the South Devon Flock Book and the Devon Longwool Sheep Breeders Society were rather in bred and again on the verge of extinction.

"So it was decided by the then committees, of which Melvyn Britton was President of the Longwools, to amalgamate.

“At the time of merging, there were 100 South Devon members and only 50 Devon Longwool members, with the majority of flocks between Hale and Kentisbeare.

“They are a fantastic breed, stately and friendly with an impressive fleece and a tasty carcase."

There have been dedicated Devon and Cornwall Longwool classes within the sheep section at the Royal Cornwall Show for many years.

It is a popular breed and attracts sufficient entries to stand alone with its own classes.

This year 57 Devon and Cornwall Longwool entries were received, and with numbers up competition in the classes should be fierce.

To celebrate this milestone the association will have a breed promotion stand at this year’s show.

They are also producing a publication devoted to the history of the breed and a special birthday party held at the current president’s farm near Cullompton, Devon.

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For more information about the Royal Cornwall Show please visit royalcornwall.co.uk.