99-year-old former farmer shows cow at Stranraer Show

A 99-year-old care home resident in Stranraer has shown a cow at his local agricultural show, fulfilling a long-held wish. Jackie Brown, a former farmer, led an Ayrshire cow at the Stranraer Show on Wednesday. The event, which celebrated its 180th edition this year, is one of the oldest agricultural shows in southern Scotland.

Brown lives at Belmont Care Centre. Staff there asked residents about their one wish and posted Brown’s request on social media. The post attracted attention from Stranraer Show organisers, who arranged for him to take part. Yvonne Patterson, a staff member at the care centre, said she wanted to do something special for each resident.

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A wish shared online

Patterson explained how the idea came about. She visited each resident to ask about their one wish. When she spoke to Brown, he said he wanted to show a cow again. He had spent his career showing Ayrshire cattle and other livestock at local agricultural events. Patterson posted the request on the care centre’s Facebook page.

The response was immediate. The post received many comments, and Stranraer Show organisers contacted the care centre. Charles Service, the show’s director, said he was happy to help. Service has known Brown for more than 50 years. He described Brown as a pioneer in Galloway agriculture, noting his work with blackface sheep and shepherd’s crooks.

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“I never ever thought I would show another Ayrshire cow. It's unbelievable.”

Jackie Brown, former farmer and care home resident

Service said Brown was the first farmer in the area to open his farm to the public, inviting people to see how farming worked. He called the opportunity to help Brown a way to give back to those who had supported him over the years. The show provided Brown with a rosette for his participation, naming him 'Supreme Champion, Oldest Handler'.

A day to remember

Brown said the experience exceeded his expectations. He had not expected to show a cow again. The Stranraer Show features competitions for livestock, local food and rural crafts. This year’s event included displays of prize cattle, sheep and other farm animals. Brown’s participation was part of a broader effort by the care centre to create special moments for residents.

Patterson said the care centre regularly shares updates on social media so families can see what residents are doing. The post about Brown’s wish was one of many, but it stood out because of the response it received. She said the team at Belmont Care Centre will continue to look for ways to make residents’ wishes come true.

It is unclear what Brown’s next wish might be. For now, he has a rosette and the memory of leading an Ayrshire cow at the Stranraer Show.