WE continue our look at the future of the show circuit - the young handlers!

With the 2021 show season once again falling foul of Covid, and most summer shows once again not taking place, we’ve asked the individual show societies to nominate a young handler or two, for us to speak to, and get their outlook on shows, and the wider industry. After all, they are the future.

Running in a similar order to the show calendar, we’re looking forward to hearing what the next generation have to say...

Hannah MacIntosh

Can we have a bit of background information about you and your family?

I live on our family farm, Greystone, at Blackhills, Peterhead.

Our family have lived at this farm for over 100 years now. I have an older sister Sarah, who’s 21 and a younger brother Harry, who is six.

At home, we breed cows, sheep and Highland Ponies. Our stud is called Redleys Highland Ponies.

How did you get into showing livestock?

I have been going to the shows with my big sister all of my life I think. I love helping out, and looking after the ponies, and helping to get them read.

I share my sisters Highland Pony, Lochewe Magnus and I have ridden him in the show ring, and I have also shown him in-hand.

What are your favourite breeds?

Highland Ponies are definitely my favourite horses. I have had other breeds but they just are not the same as a Highland. I think you have to own one to understand.

I also like Texel sheep and Shorthorn cattle.

What stands out to you about these breeds? What qualities do you feel that they have?

I love the Highland Ponies because they are different colours, and they are Scottish ponies. They have lovely temperaments and even the Queen has them – so they must be good!

What was the first show you went to? What is your favourite show?

The first show was at the Fountain, Dyce, doing the young handlers. I have done lots of local shows – even agricultural shows.

My favourite show is New Deer Agricultural Show.

I show Magnus in-hand there, and came second against all the adults. I love Blair Atholl as well, and love helping my sister look after the ponies when they are at a sleepover – the fun fairs at the shows are fun as well!

What is your favourite thing about showing?

When we are at the shows, my jobs are filling the ponies water buckets and grooming them. I also put on their hoof oil.

What has been your biggest success?

My biggest success so far as been getting to ride around the parades at the agricultural shows and I loved carrying the Highland Pony banner at Turriff Show. The main ring is amazing.

Have you had any disappointments so far?

My only disappointment has been the shows being cancelled due to COVID!

Who would you say you look up to, in showing? What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

I really look up to my older sister, Sarah and I really hope that I can be as successful in the show ring as she has been over the years – she has won loads.

Do you help out on the farm at home?

I help Sarah with the ponies. We have mares, foals and two stallions.

I also love lambing time and I help to pull the lambs out, or help to hold the ewes down for my sister. I also like to help bottle feeding the pet lambs.

What are your hobbies or interests out with showing?

I also breed Netherland Dwarf Rabbits, and guinea pigs. I go for riding lessons every week, and I also love to go out riding my bike.

Do you have plans for the future? Do they feature agriculture?

My dream is to ride our stallion, Ferdinand, at the Royal Highland Show.

I love breeding animals and seeing all the babies – although it is a bit sad when these things go wrong. I will hopefully work on the family farm with my sister and younger brother when I’m older – there is always plenty for all of us to do!

Do you have any tips or advice for other young people trying to get in to showing?

It does not matter if you win or lose, always smile and be happy. Try your best and enjoy the day and always know that your animal is the best to you!