In a final call for entries, organisers of the 2016 Diageo Baileys Irish Champion Dairy Cow competition have announced the judge of this year’s finale will be Kevin Wilson from Cumbria, England.

There is a total prize fund of €10,000 at this year’s show, which includes a prize of €2,500 for the Champion Dairy Cow, followed by €1,000 and €500 for Reserve Champion and Honourable Mention respectively.

Wilson, who is judging in Ireland for the first time, said he had high expectations for the event which takes place on August 24, at the Virginia Show in Co. Cavan.

“I have heard excellent reports about the very high standard of cows so I am looking forward to the pleasure of judging them.”

Show organisers have said that Wilson is an experienced judge at major shows including the Great Yorkshire and the Royal Welsh.

The reputation of his own 400 strong Walnerview Holstein herd was boosted recently with one of his cows joining the elite EX-97 group: Warnelview Final Cut Nita.

He said to win the top title at ‘the Baileys’ would require “a very functional cow with a fine udder”.

The event has become known as the ‘All-Ireland for Dairy Cows’ because it consistently attracts the top Holstein Friesian breeders from across the island.

Unlike other shows, all classes are exhibited together for a final line-up to be selected by Wilson who will then crown one 2016 Diageo Baileys Champion.

The event is co-sponsored by Glanbia Ingredients Ireland, suppliers to Diageo for Baileys’ cream.

Closing date for entries is this Friday, August 12. For further details, contact Brendan Smyth on 087 2560952 or visit the Virginia Show website.