THIS year’s Devon County Show is set to expand its livestock offering with a series of new competitions designed to champion breed excellence, nurture young handlers and bring a light-hearted theme to the show rings.

The additions reflect the Show’s commitment to supporting British livestock, encouraging the next generation, and celebrating the character and creativity of the farming community.

The new classes for 2026 include:

• Bleu du Maine Sheep Classes - Known for their distinctive blue‑tinged faces and exceptional maternal qualities, Bleu du Maine sheep will have dedicated classes at the Show for the first time. Exhibitors and enthusiasts can look forward to a strong showcase of this increasingly popular continental breed, prized for its commercial value;

• Belted Galloway Cattle Classes - The much‑loved “Belties” will take centre stage in new cattle classes celebrating this hardy, eye‑catching native breed. With their iconic white belt and reputation for producing premium beef on low‑input systems, Belted Galloways are expected to draw significant interest from both breeders and Devon County Show visitors alike;

• Dexter Young Handlers Classes - Supporting the next generation of stockpeople remains a cornerstone of the Devon County Show. The introduction of Dexter Young Handlers classes gives younger exhibitors the chance to gain confidence, develop stockmanship skills, and showcase the smallest of the native cattle breeds — renowned for their docility, versatility, and suitability for small holdings;

• Sheep Fancy Dress Classes - A guaranteed crowd‑pleaser, the new Sheep Fancy Dress will add humour, imagination, and rural storytelling to the proceedings. These classes offer a light‑hearted moment in the livestock programme and are always a favourite with families and an opportunity for them to get involved;

• Best Presented Sheep Pen Awards - Attention to detail and pride in presentation will be recognised through the Best Presented Sheep Pen Awards. These awards celebrate exhibitors who go the extra mile to create an inviting, informative and well‑kept pen area, helping to elevate the visitor experience and showcase the professionalism of the sheep section.