Garstang Show is 'back in business' (PICTURE GALLERY)
Published Date:
06 August 2008
THE Royal Lancashire Show may have been called off, but on Saturday Garstang Show was back to full strength, with an outstanding display of the region's agriculture.
Last year organisers were devastated when a Foot and Mouth outbreak was announced the night before causing the cancellation of the cattle and sheep classes, and were even more disappointed when bad weather meant many members of the public stayed at home.
But this year the sun shone on the 193rd event, and between 10,000-12,000 visitors arrived to see what the show had on offer.
The cattle and sheep were the star attractions, with many families showing an interest in the livestock which had been missing the year before.
Farmers brought their animals despite worries about the recent Bluetongue virus outbreak, and were proud to show their prized cattle and sheep to the public.
The show also featured light horses and the ever-popular heavy horses and turnouts, including the Thwaites and Robinson's heavy horses, which filled the stands with spectators.
There were lots of other animals to see, including dogs, poultry, colourful budgies, rabbits of all shapes and sizes, and goats.
There were tents featuring local horticulture, floral art and children's crafts, as well as photography, home baking and handicrafts, and the public enjoyed a parade of vintage and modern tractors.
The crowds were entertained by fairground rides and the Jill Fielding Band, while Christine Walkden, of BBC TV's Christine's Garden, was on hand to offer advice for green-fingered visitors.
Sue White, secretary of the show, said: "It's gone very well indeed. We were a bit concerned when it chucked it down this morning - the rain was torrential for half an hour.
"But it's been really nice all day. More and more people have come in and we're very pleased after last year. Everybody's really enjoyed themselves.
"The whole thing last year was disappointing, but on the other side it was heartening to see how many people came and supported us, and have returned today. This is what we work towards."
Garstang mayor Michael Halford spent the day with his wife Robyn and son Nathan, who won a prize for his decorative digestive biscuits.
Mr Halford said: "It's fantastic seeing so many people here. We've been having a look round and it's been a great day for the family."
New chairman David Hewitt, who farms at Nateby, also enjoyed the day. He has been on the committee for 20 years and has been attending the show for 50 years, since he was a baby.
He said: "I'm very honoured to take on the position. It's nice to see everybody enjoying themselves and getting close to agriculture.
"It's been a good turnout and we thank everybody for coming and supporting the show and thanks to the committee for putting so much work into it.
"I've enjoyed meeting all the folk involved and seeing the different sections, and I'm thankful that we've had a good day weather wise.
"I hope to keep enthusiasm up and keep the committee going strong. When you walk round it makes you appreciate all the work everybody does. The pleasure is in seeing everybody talking and meeting friends. I hope everyone will come again next year."
Tom Ibison, who took on the role of president for the first time this year, said: "What a fantastic day, and a fantastic crowd - aren't they fantastic for turning up and supporting us when we really need it?
"Where else can you go to see such community spirit, people talking to people, enjoying themselves and looking at the most fantastic exhibits and trade stands in the country?
"It is totally outstanding, and proves Garstang Show is still the leading show in the North West of England. All I can say is a very, very big thank you for everybody who has turned out to support us, particularly the general public who have paid."
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Last Updated:
06 August 2008 2:33 PM
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Source:
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Location:
Garstang