South Devon cattle are an inherent feature of the South Devon landscape, and doubtless we’ve all seen their rich red colour adding contrast to Devon’s abundant and lush green pastures. 

A native breed, originally founded 400 years ago in South Hams, the South Devon is now a national phenomenon with some 25,000 at the most recent count dotting the British countryside from the tip of Cornwall to the far north of Scotland in the Orkneys.

The South Devon Herd Book Society which represents the breed is however firmly rooted in Devon, at the home of the Devon County Show. And though the Society roams the country, holding their national shows at various agricultural events since they were first launched in 2010, it seems fitting that it will be returning, after a two-year absence, to its home county of Devon and the 2022 Devon County Show.

Caroline Poultney, Breed Society Secretary said:

‘We have now had to miss two national shows, 2019 because of lockdown and 2020 simply because it wasn’t viable to pull it together in time.  We’re desperate to get back out there, as are the breeders, many of whom travel hundreds of miles to compete. We’ve had a fantastic reception thus far and hope that we will be back up to our normal levels of 100 entries when the Show comes around.’

So what is it that really makes a South Devon special?

This year’s Judge of the breed classes, Lionel Pascoe from Hayle in Cornwall, with many years’ experience of breeding and judging South Devons under his belt, reveals all:

“A good South Devon Bull should have a strong presence and stand out in a herd of South Devon cows. He should have a nice straight top line, good bone, a fine shoulder and a nice square back end, with good temperament and finally not too dark in colour.”

• Bulls grow quickly and mature early, which means they can begin to be used as young as 15-18 months. 
• South Devons are wonderfully docile creatures and safe and easy to handle which makes them a great breed for showing. 
• They make superb quality meat which is marbled – a highly desirable trait for tenderness and taste.
• Not only are they kind by nature, South Devons have a kindly face too, with a broad pink nose and muzzle. 
• The dams have a long life expectancy and make excellent, caring mothers.
• They have thick red curly coats and are extremely hardy. 

“In the show ring, we are looking for some specific features from the female cows”, continues Lionel. “The ideal South Devon Dam should be of good temperament, and she should show presence with good breed characteristics.  She should have a nice feminine head - not too long - and good body width and good size not over done with muscle. She should walk freely, have a good milky udder which is not too big with medium size teats.”

To see which South Devons makes the grade at the National Championships, book now for Devon County Show 2022. The grand final of the South Devon National Show takes place on Thursday 30^th June.

Why not book your advance tickets now and save on the gate price? nVisit www.devoncountyshow.co.uk for more details.