Blonde cattle enthusiasts are being encouraged to come together for a breed open day and training event. The day is being held by the British Blonde Society and is designed for current pedigree breeders, commercial breeders and anyone interested in the British Blonde breed.

The event will take place on Sunday March 25, 2018 at Doncombe Blondes, Oakham Beef Unit, Portbury Lane, Bristol, BS20 7SP by kind permission of David and Sue Knight.

Assisting current and new members to have the confidence to prepare animals for shows and sales is always a priority for the breed society and therefore this educational event will include a washing, clipping and grooming demonstration as well as a leading, handling and show ring etiquette demonstration. The day will also include a halter making session.

Selecting stock for the show ring will also be on the agenda with a workshop on what a Blonde cattle judge usually looks for in the ring as well as an opportunity to take part in a stock-judging competition.

The Blonde breed is renowned for producing carcases with a very high killing out percentage with an exceptionally high ratio of lean meat to bone. This will be showcased in a 'hoof to hook' demonstration.

Other topics under the spotlight during the day will include fertility, nutrition, animal health, calving cameras and calving alert aids.

In addition to all the activities taking place, the day will provide an excellent opportunity to view the herd of 200 blonde cattle which are all under one roof. The Doncombe herd has proven success at shows and sales across the country and is a past winner of the National Blonde Herd Competition.

British Blonde Cattle Society chairman William McElroy said: "The event will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a Blonde and discover how the Blonde breed could benefit their herds."