'From as far west as Truro, to Christchurch in Dorset and even Bristol in the east,' came goat farmers to take part in the Okehampton Show, said section secretary Ian Crowther.

Ian, from Okehampton and a member of the Devon Goat Society, said: 'This is quite an important show for entrants in the dairy goats as the points count towards the title of champion at national level.'

All the herds have been inspected by a vet before they can enter the show. It is quite a scientific process — the animals are checked that they are healthy to milk, as is the weight of the milk with samples taken in the morning and evening, and even for its butterfat and protein content.

There were 104 goats entered, representing all seven main dairy breeds and reflecting the level of the show.?It was judged by Terry Hannah, who came all the way from Northern Ireland to cast his expert eye over the entries.