Two new trophies, revised young handler classes and the positive effects of last year’s record entry combine to generate an air of expectancy in the Royal Cornwall Show’s (June 7-9) sheep section.

Departmental steward for sheep, Mary Andrew, is now in her fourth year in the job and is hoping to see last year’s record entry of 1,090 equalled if not surpassed.

She expects the two new breeds that gained classes last year – Ryeland and Exmoor Horn – to perform well again this year and is quietly hoping for a good turnout of White-faced Dartmoors.

“They come to the rare breeds section but we have not had classes in the sheep section – although we have had them in the any other pure breeds.

“It’s one I think might make classes of its own. It’s a local native breed so it would be very welcome all round,” said Mary.

There’s always a good turnout in the young handler classes and this year there has been a re-arrangement to encourage more entries and more even competition.

Until now, classes have been split between ten and under and 11 to 14. Now there are three classes: seven and under, eight to 12 and 13 to 16.

The classes now match those offered in the rare breeds section, which will provide a good basis for keen competition at the show.

Lady Carew Pole, the 2012 show president, has donated a brand new trophy for the ram lamb championship in commemoration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and a cup for the winner of the youngest class in the young handler competitions has been donated by John and Michelle Osborne – neighbours of Mary’s, near Bude.

“I know that both trophies will be well appreciated. There will be about 20 ram lambs in the running for the president’s trophy. Judging will be hard work. Our neighbours have three daughters in the young handler competitions and it was them who suggested the new classifications so their decision to donate a trophy is much appreciated,” said Mary.

Although she doesn’t show herself, Mary enjoys the atmosphere of the sheep section.

“There is no vicious competitiveness. Although everyone wants to win, if they think they can help out a young competitor, they will. Lots of families take part. It’s a wonderful atmosphere and a laid-back attitude. My aim is to keep that alive and make sure it is a place people want to come to,” she said.

Formerly the Jacob steward and commercial sheep steward, Mary has “always been involved with the show.” When she was asked to take on a stewarding role, she didn’t think twice. “I enjoy stewarding and the company of people. Because I am a guider, I like to see things done and done properly,” she said.

n Keep up with the show news at royalcornwall.co.uk