A NEW young Holstein heifer class at this summer's Royal Cornwall Show will be an attraction to breeders from far and near.

The maiden heifer class, for an animal born between December 1 2002 and May 31 2003, has been introduced at the request of the Cornish Holstein Club.

Club secretary David Elliott explained that members felt the new class would complement those already established for young bull and heifer calf.

"It has been the view amongst members for a while and we put it to the show and they were quite happy to accommodate us," he said.

Holstein classes are traditionally well supported at the Royal Cornwall Show, the more so as the breed's popularity develops in the county. A well-rounded set of competitive classes helps to maintain interest from within and outside the county and the South West. This new class will prove an attraction to many exhibitors, including a fair number from up country, said David. This year's judge, Michael Armstrong, is very well respected and his appointment reflects the standing of the Royal Cornwall's Holstein competitions.

"As a past chairman of Holstein UK, he is very well known and is recognised as a very fair judge who knows his job," says David.

Based in Cumbria, he is also a well-known breeder who has had to re-build his herd following foot and mouth.

"It is important to us in Cornwall that we get noted breeders from outside the county at our show. We appreciate that support," he said. "We see the show as a shop window and winning here is certainly good for the breeder."

Welcoming the new class, show secretary Christopher Riddle also announced an increase in prize money on offer this year.

He said: "It has been decided that it is time that the prize money on offer for the equine and livestock sections was reviewed and we are sure that exhibitors will be pleased with the increases planned, which add a further £6,500 to the total on offer.

"Entry fees will also see minor increases with all such income generated being re-distributed to those competing."

The 2004 Royal Cornwall Show is on June 10, 11, and 12.