The focus for this year’s East of England Smithfield Festival on the 26 and 27 November in Peterborough, is new technology and leading the way will be the inaugural live broadcast of the cattle judging and the auction.

“This is such an exciting development for the show,” explains William Haire, East of England Smithfield Festival director. “Our new partnership with Melton Mowbray market has allowed us to introduce this new technology and allow anyone who is unable to attend, to still be involved.

“By simply going to the Melton Mowbray market website, anyone can watch the judging classes live from the show,” explains Mr Haire. “This makes the event, much more inclusive to all.”

Continuing this hi-tech theme, is the new StockTech area which aims to highlight new precision technology and innovative techniques on offer to the livestock sector.

“As an industry, it is important that we are open and receptive to new and improved methods of production, allowing us to increase efficiencies and protect the sustainability of our businesses,” explains Mr Haire.

Seminars will also be available to attendees, giving food for thought on a wide range of issues including red meat marketing, introducing beef and sheep enterprises to an arable business and contract-rearing options. A help-desk area, with experts in a number of legislative and advisory capacities will also be on hand to answer individual enquiries.

“The show has evolved significantly this year, and I am thrilled with the support and encouragement we have received in developing the event,” says Mr Haire. “Entries are now closed, and I am delighted to report that we have many highly respected exhibitors from England, Wales and Scotland attending the event. We have also seen a substantial increase in trade stand exhibitors which reflects the confidence the industry has in the East of England Smithfield Festival and its credibility in the livestock sector.

“There will be something for everyone,” he concludes. “The new facilities here at the East of England Showground, together with the new technology and the quality of the exhibitors, will make for a truly exciting and informative event.”

Please visit meltonmowbraymarket.co.uk for further details on the live broadcast for the East of England Smithfield Festival.