The Southdown Sheep Society is pleased to confirm that the 2026 National Southdown Show will take place at the Staffordshire Show on May 27th – 28th 2026. The Southdown classes will take place on Wednesday May 27th.

The judge for the 2026 National Show is Mrs Caroline Brown.

The Staffordshire County Show has been taking place for over 200 years and is a big part of Staffordshire life, celebrating agriculture, competition, entertainment, food, shopping and so much more.

We encourage all members to consider giving their support to the National Show, whether as exhibitors or spectators.

The President, Mrs Chris Rhead, invites all Southdown exhibitors, members and friends to join her on the sheep lines following the judging for an ‘Afternoon Tea’ reception. National Show trophies will be presented at the reception. Exact timing to be confirmed in due course.

Members are reminded of the conditions imposed by all shows who offer dedicated Southdown classes:

All animals entered in these classes must be from current members of the Southdown Sheep Society and either be registered or eligible for registration with the Southdown Sheep Society.
All animals must be owned by exhibitors for minimum of four months prior to show.
Shearlings and aged animals entered in a show should be shorn bare no earlier that 1st February in the year of the show.
All sheep must be led on a halter while in the ring unless instructed otherwise by the judge or stewards.
No more than one handler per sheep will be allowed in the show ring unless authorised by stewards eg to ensure health and safety.
No sheep which has been artificially coloured or tinted may be shown.

Full details will be published on the Southdown Sheep Society website in due course.
Alternatively, contact Mrs Sue Mellor, the Livestock Secretary for further details.