Winter Workshop hosted at Oldington

Kindly run by the Pennington family near Bridgnorth on 21 Feb, members were invited to learn all about how to get started in the show ring.

A popular feature returning to the BWCS events calendar this February was the well-attended Winter Workshop, held this time at Oldington Farm in Shropshire where Paul, Catherine, and James Pennington (pictured above) provided the perfect setup to demonstrate how they work on their cattle in preparation for the summer show season.

The casual format allowed for plenty of conversation, with great questions and input from the members, and topics discussed ranged from at home preparation to show day planning, etiquette and ringcraft to equipment and paperwork.

Members’ donations towards the excellent catering provided will be split between the Shropshire Air Ambulance and Lingen Davies Cancer Centre charities, and the Society is grateful to the Pennington family for all of their efforts to run such an enjoyable day, as well as the members who came along to support the event.

Missed the workshop but still looking to get started at shows?

The BWCS can put you in touch with members who can provide practical help and advice, so just contact Breed Secretary Sarah Cook with any questions. Remember not to leave it too late! Schedules & entry forms are already available for a number of shows for 2026, and it’s never too soon to start preparing.

TOP TIPS FROM THE DAY

• Introduce new experiences gradually when halter training to build animals’ trust and confidence

• Several washes in early Spring will help remove staining and bring out the summer coat

• Animals presented in show condition will allow the judge to see full potential, but cattle should not be fed to the point of compromised working performance

• Remember all equipment and paperwork by making a list

• Practice good biosecurity and keep lines clean and tidy for other exhibitors

PHOTO GALLERY