Fake tans give sheep an edge in race for rosettes

Sheep are getting spray tans in the hope they will turn heads at an agricultural show.

Farmer Sam Beachell, from East Yorkshire, said he was coating the Texel sheep in the light brown spray to enhance their body shape.

"It enhances the whiteness of the head and the legs and then the muscle definition of the body," he said.

The animals will be hoping to win a prize at the 150th Driffield Show later

Beachell, who farms near the village of Beswick, said he was looking forward to the annual show, which he has attended since his childhood years.

"It's a huge social," he said. "When you're farming, some of it can be fairly on your own and it's just good to catch up with friends."

His sheep have won prizes in the past and he is hoping to lift another title this year.

"You can never be overconfident," he added. "If we get an odd rosette, then we'll be chuffed. If we do any better, then it'll be a special day."

The Driffield Show starts at 09:00 BST and includes judging throughout the day in a wide variety of categories, from livestock to horticulture.

There will be hundreds of trade stalls and a range of entertainment in the main arena, including championship showjumping.

Family attractions include a 98ft-high (30m) big wheel. Children under 16 go free with a paying adult.

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