This year the Norbrook Calf Spectacular and Ulster Bank Beef Championships will be judged by Peter Hannan of the Meat Merchant, Moira. Peter is no stranger to judging the event having first judged in 1982 at the Oxford Mart, Oxford Street, Belfast. Before the move to Balmoral 20 years ago the animals were not haltered making it more difficult for the judge to be hands on when judging. Since his debut in 1982 he has judged the show a further four times at Balmoral, most recently in 2007.
As well as judging Peter is a keen buyer at the show having bought many champions and breed champions over the years. Peter commented: “Allams Christmas Show is a showcase for the NI beef industry and as such a front window for all the fabulous beef we produce here in Northern Ireland. It’s a tremendous privilege to be asked to judge the final show at Balmoral, it’s the end of an era but we can also look forward to a new era starting.”
Peter has won many awards for his beef products over the past few years including two Gold Stars from the Great Taste Awards, twice winning the best steak in Ulster competition, product of the year and NIFDA Food Chain Excellence in Farming Award.
Ulster Bank are once again the main sponsor and Cormac McKervey, senior agricultural manager, commented: “We are delighted Peter Hannan is once again judging the Allams Christmas Show this year. He has a great eye for cattle and with so many top awards he certainly knows his beef. When he is judging the supreme champion in the sale ring the atmosphere will be electric.”
If you would like to line up your top qualify calves and beef cattle for Peter to judge please contact Roy Gibson on 07775665999 for a schedule and entry form. Remember all entries must be with Roy by Tuesday 6 November.
Even if you don’t have cattle to enter come along to see Peter judging the very best commercial calves and fatstock cattle in Northern Ireland. The calf spectacular will commence at 10am with beef cattle immediately afterwards and young handlers at approximately2.30pm. The exciting climax of the judging, the final of the Housewife’s Choice and the Supreme Champion, will be judged in the sales ring around 6pm.
Of course if you want to come along to the sale and take home some primestock for yourself the calves will be sold at 4pm, beef cattle at 7pm and the beef champions around 8.30pm. Entrance is free and there is ample car parking at Balmoral.