Farmers and breeders from around Penrith will join exhibitors from across the UK at Borderway Agri Expo, alongside a major discussion on the future of British beef and sheep farming.
Livestock exhibitors from Penrith will be among those competing at Borderway Agri Expo on Friday 30 October 2026, when farmers and breeders from across the UK gather at Borderway Mart, Carlisle.
Among those representing Penrith will be Slack & Haughan of Plum Tree House, Newby; Philip Elliott from Bank House, Mungrisedale; and P & L Murray of Ellonby Hall, Ellonby.
The judging panel includes Staffordshire breeder Boomer Birch of the Sky High Hereford and Boomer British Blue herds for the commercial cattle classes; Balfour Baillie of Sebay View Farm, Orkney, for Baby Beef; Jack Smyth of Smyths Livestock, County Tyrone, for the sheep classes; and Northumberland breeder Martyn Archer, formerly of Carry House Farm, for the Mule Gimmer Lamb classes.
Away from the livestock rings, an important seminar will examine whether the greatest pressures facing British beef and sheep producers come from imports or closer to home. Taking place at 1.30pm in Ring Four, it will bring together Phil Stocker, Chief Executive of the National Sheep Association, Robert Martin, National Chair of the Tenant Farmers Association and noted Borders livestock farmer James Playfair-Hannay of Morebattle Tofts, Kelso.
The discussion will explore overseas competition, production costs, agricultural policy and declining livestock numbers, considering their implications for farm businesses and the UK's long-term food security.
Laura Millar, Agri Expo Event Organiser, said: "Our exhibitors from across the UK bring tremendous quality to the judging rings, and their support is an important part of Agri Expo's success.
"For visitors, it is a chance to assess breeding stock, meet specialists and discuss decisions affecting their businesses. The seminar will give producers an opportunity to hear informed views on the challenges ahead and contribute their own experiences."
Organised by H+H Livestock, Agri Expo combines commercial cattle and sheep competitions with seven National Calf Shows. New British Limousin and British Charolais championships join established shows for Aberdeen-Angus, Beef Shorthorn, British Blue, Hereford and Simmental.
A new Auctioneering Competition, organised with the Livestock Auctioneers Association, will offer Under-16 and Open classes for aspiring auctioneers, challenging competitors to sell livestock, machinery and a mystery lot.
The trade exhibition will cover breeding, genetics, machinery, technology and agricultural services, providing opportunities to meet suppliers and do business. The David Thomlinson Lifetime Achievement Award will also recognise an outstanding contribution to the livestock industry.
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