Best lamb awaits final test

Judging for the on-the hoof and on-the-hooks sections of the inaugural Gate to Plate competition has been completed but Masterton A&P; Society officials are keeping results under wraps awaiting the big cook-up on Saturday.

President Allan Williams said the two sections were completed yesterday with each of the 13 entrants providing a pair of prime lambs for judging.

On Saturday, just before noon, restaurateurs will gather in front of Trades Hall at Solway Showgrounds to cook lamb three different ways.

Judging the cooked lamb will be a panel of three, former Miss New Zealand Gay Williams, Olympic equestrian Tinks Pottinger and Martinborough food and wine connoisseur Larry McKenna.

Mr Williams said the judging would be held in one of the heaviest traffic areas at the show and is expected to draw a big crowd of onlookers.

He said the Gate to Plate contest had "not to my knowledge" been held anywhere in the North Island before but similar competitions had been staged at the Wanaka A&P; Show and the Canterbury A&P; Show.

"We hope this will build to something bigger and help to promote Wairarapa, even one day involving Wairarapa wine."

The 146th Masterton A&P; Show begins on Friday with equestrian events and will include "all the fun of the fair" plus sheep judging.

Cattle judging and the Grand Parade will be on Sunday.