Great Yorkshire Show launches cheating inquiry

Mr Cowling said it was the first time such an investigation had been launched

Suspected cases of cheating by exhibitors at the Great Yorkshire Show are being investigated for the first time in the event's 155-year history.

The Yorkshire Agricultural Society (YAS) said tests on two dairy animals suggested a "substance" which breached YAS rules had been used.

It would not confirm what the substance was but said it was used to improve the appearance of animals.

The YAS said the owners had been told and further tests would be carried out.

Prize money

Bill Cowling, honorary show director, said: "I don't want to disclose the exact thing we are investigating but it is something which would give the exhibitors an advantage by falsifying the appearance of the animal. Basically it is cheating.

"The samples have been taken from the animals which will be analysed. It is something that takes days or weeks rather than hours so the investigation is ongoing."

Mr Cowling said anyone found to have used such a substance would be stripped of any prize money and might be barred from future events and competitions.

More than 8,000 animals participate in competitions at the three-day show in Harrogate which attracts around 130,000 visitors.