Tatton Farm's prize champion.

Two year old Tatton Tansy won firstly her class (against cows of a similar age) and finally, to top it all, was awarded the title ‘Champion Rare Breed’.  This fantastic award saw her beating all rare breed animals, of any class and any age group. 

Ben Edwards, Farm Assistant, is tasked with responsibility for cattle at the Farm and with showing Tansy in the ring.  Ben commented “All our hard work paid off and Tansy did us proud!  She was very well behaved and showed herself off beautifully for the judges.  We’re all really proud to be able to showcase this special breed – and to win awards for them is even better!”   

Shaking their piglet pompoms and neighing approval were some of her fans from the Farm, including a litter of seven Tamworth (crossed with Large White) weaners and Blue and Finn, a pair of Clydesdale horses and much-loved on the Farm.  Rosie, a Red Poll also came with her calf Tatton Victor.

This is the first time the Farm has taken so many animals to the Cheshire Show, held annually at Tabley in June. It took an enormous amount of organisation to transport and stable these animals during the show but the Farm were very happy with the animals’ behaviour.  Ben commented “despite the heat, the new noises and surroundings, all of the animals behaved impeccably!  There are very used to the public so it’s nice to be able to give them a much wider audience than usual.”

Tatton Tansy was not the only prize winner.  Rosie, the Red Poll came first in her class, and was then pipped at the post by Tansy in the ‘Champion Rare Breed’ class.  Finn and Blue themselves had moments of glory: they took part in the heavy horses demonstration ride to music and Finn competed for and won 2nd place in his class. 

The wins were very much a team effort. The porkers didn’t have a competitive streak this time around; they happily showed off for the public, having a whale of a time wallowing in their own private mudbath.  We’re sure they’ll bring home the bacon next year!

Visitors will be able to see Tatton Tansy at the Farm during normal opening times. She will also be one of the star attractions at the Rare Breeds Weekend at the Farm on Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th July. This annual event showcases all our fantastic rare breeds, including Tamworth pigs, Clydesdale horses and Red Poll cattle. 

Prices/Opening Times
Home Farm is open High Season (until 14 October): Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm-5pm (last entry 4pm). Prices: Adults £4.50, Child £2.50 (2-15 years of age), Family £11.50 (2 adults and up to 3 children).  National Trust members pay 50% entry to the Farm.  Park entry charge £4.50 per car www.tattonpark.org.uk

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