Cattle

We are excited to announce the Cattle Section at the Alrewas Show.

The history of cattle in England began approximately 6,000 years ago during the Neolithic period when early farmers brought domesticated stock across the English Channel from continental Europe. 

The Romans were notably enthusiastic beef-eaters and used cattle in religious ceremonies. Cattle were fundamental to daily life, providing meat, milk, and leather. In the Medieval Period, cattle were the "tractors of their day," primarily valued for ploughing and hauling. 

Through the 18th & 19th centuries, pioneers like Robert Bakewell revolutionized breeding, shifting the focus from draft animals to specialized meat and dairy production,and exporting British cattle globally.

Nowadays there are around 5 million cattle in England, including the centuries-old Chillingham wild cattle in Northumberland - the only known wild cattle herd in the world! 

Dairy cattle are selectively bred primarily for milk production (around 6,500 litres per cow per year). This milk is used for human consumption and dairy products such as cheese, butter and yogurt and is a cornerstone of global agriculture and nutrition. The most common dairy cattle breed is Holstein-Friesian.

Beef cattle are specifically bred and raised for meat production and are selected for traits such as growth, meat quality, disease resistance, and adaptability.  Prominent breeds include the British Angus and Hereford. The Continental breeds are Charolais, Belgium Blue and Limousin. Cross breeding can enhance hybrid vigour, combining desirable traits from multiple breeds.