Ferret's a go-go at the Show

It's not just cows, sheep and prize-winning horses at this year's Royal County of Berkshire Show, there's a "business" of ferrets strutting their stuff, too.

Four-way ferret races are on throughout the day at 12.45, 2.30, 3.45 and 4.45.

Although there is no main race for the furry mammals the current "champion" according to the Hants and Berks Ferret Club who are organising the stand is Ghost.

The club has around 50 members and 40 ferrets and has attended the show for the last fifteen years.

Chairwoman Sally Tripp said that they enjoyed coming to the Show each year and raising awareness of the animals which are kinder than most people think.

She said: "They have all got a back-story and although everybody remembers Richard Whiteley getting bitten [in 1977] they are safe, and it's all down to the handler.

"In fact, my dog is more likely to bite me."

The animals are all rescue ferrets and the Club said they raise money and then donate it to various animal welfare and rehoming groups across the county.

One of the showgoers enjoying the ferrets was Major Andy Rudd (pictured with Club Secretary Sue Riley) who works at the School of Military Survey at Hermitage Barracks and always comes to the Shows.

The 10.45am race saw Marley (also pictured) place second shortly after this picture was taken, victory snatched from its grasp by the ominously named Saxon.

For results and more pictures see next week's Newbury Weekly News.