Organisers hail Royal Manx Show 'huge success'

Derek Griffin's five-year-old Hereford Bull was crowned supreme champion

Royal Manx Agricultural Show organisers have hailed the event a "huge success" as more than 18,000 people attended.

The two-day farming show at Knockaloe Farm in Patrick was celebrating the 60th year of its Royal warrant, although it was first held in 1858.

Secretary Christine Pain said: "We were lucky with the sunshine and we were absolutely delighted that the Manx public turned out to support the show."

Sulby farmer Derek Griffin's Hereford bull was crowned supreme champion.

It completed a double victory for Mr Griffin and his five-year-old Polled Hereford bull, after last month's victory in the southern show.

'Absolutely thrilled'

Mr Griffin said: "I am absolutely thrilled to win. It really means a lot to receive this award."

The bull is kept on Mr Griffin's Glenndale farm in the north of the island.

Mrs Pain added: "We feel very privileged to have the title Royal in our name.

"There are not many Royal agricultural societies in the UK anymore and to have had this privilege for 60 years is a great honour for us.

"We are especially pleased with the huge crowds who turned out to support it. It's a great event and brings everyone together to enjoy all the different aspects of the show."

Hundreds of animals from all over the island were entered in various classes over the two days.

The show's president, Colin Kelly, said: "I'm very proud to be president but it is a real team effort and I must thank all the wonderful volunteers who have made the show a huge success again this year.

"It has been a great event and really showcased the very best in Manx farming, produce and crafts."

As well as animals there were numerous displays of classic and modern machinery, vintage cars, as well as a farming market. There were also displays by a number of the world's leading BMX riders and skateboarders and world enduro champion David Knight.