Sheep at the 2017 Devon County Show will be shown under their respective breed society rules.

The decision was made by the livestock committee of the Devon County Agricultural Association, which runs the Show.

This year a breed society complaint into allegations of wool colouring was upheld.

The awards, trophies and prize money for the Interbreed Champion, Interbreed Champion Pair and Interbreed Reserve Champion Pair were withdrawn.

Edward Darke, Chief Steward of Livestock, has sent a letter to all breed societies outlining the new rules.

He writes: “The DCAA Livestock Committee accept that it is not possible to ‘police’ the regulation regarding showing sheep in their ‘natural colour’ and after much discussion the Livestock Committee has proposed that for the 2017 Devon County Show, sheep will be shown under their respective Breed Society rules. It is therefore the responsibility of the Breed Society representatives to ensure that this happens.

“This does not however alter the outcome of this year’s County Show and the decisions made with regard to colouring. The rule that was in the schedule was broken and had to be addressed.

“Hopefully we have all learnt from this year’s events and can move forward for the sake of showing and competing. Shows are the competitors’ ‘shop window’. We supply the stage for exhibitors to show livestock to the best of their, and the animal’s, ability.

“The Devon County Show sheep section has a reputation for being one of the happiest and best organised and we will work hard to ensure that it remains that way. As usual, livestock schedules will be available from February and we really do look forward to welcoming exhibitors to the Show in May (18, 19 and 20).”