SCOTSHEEP 2004 has attracted a record number of breeds this year.

The biennial event, organised by the National Sheep Association's Scottish region, takes place on the 2,000-acre upland farm of Poldean, Wamphray, Moffat, Dumfriesshire, by courtesy of Willie and Jennifer Davidson, and their son, Alisdair, on Friday, May 28.

A total of 32 breeds - ten more than the last event- will be there, with several thousand sheep farmers from the UK and Ireland. Already more than 150 trade stands have booked places, 30 more than in 2002.

A major attraction will be Poldean farm itself, restocked with 620 Lleyn ewes and hoggs and 200 Blackface ewes after the original stock was lost as a result of foot-and-mouth in 2001. The farm also has a herd of 300 Saler cows, including 25 pedigree cows, and a small herd of French-bred Charolais cattle.

Further information is available from the joint organisers, Julie Sedgewick on 01388 609322, or Euan Emslie on 01430 441870.