THREE young farmers from Bridgwater won gold in the dairy team showing challenge at the Royal Bath and West Show.

Matt House, 25, Jake Sayer, 20, and Jade Chidgey, 22, who are all members of Bridgwater Young Farmers Club - claimed the champion title with their Denmans Ayrshire cattle.

The event, held on June 1, attracted hundreds of entries.

Mr House said: "It’s really special to win the first competition.

"There are so many young, keen kids out there and there aren’t many competitions like this you can go to."

Mr House prepared the cattle, while Mr Sayer judged other stock, and Miss Chidgey exhibited the pedigree Ayrshire calf.

"Preparation is about getting them clean and shiny – you have to clip them and then blow the hair along their back to give them a good topline shape," added Mr House. He scored 95 out of 100 for his efforts.

Mr Sayer spent some time judging four cows alongside the master judge, scoring the maximum number of points available.

"You have to give your reasons for choosing the winning stock," he said.

"I also selected the calf that we exhibited to start halter breaking in February – she’s quite well bred and has good conformation."

Miss Chidgey exhibited the calf, coming third in the stock handling side of the competition.

"It’s been really good fun," said Mr House.

"It doesn’t matter what standard you are, it’s just good to have a go."

Winning the beef team showing challenge were Lottie Hill, Jess Maynard and Michael Phillips from the British Blue Cattle Society.