Message from the Chairman – Alan Watkins
Time has passed quickly since Burwarton Show on Thursday 3 August; harvest had to wait for the weather to improve so the farmers have been very busy since the Show. The weather is also a critical factor for Show Day. All through July, the rain kept coming. Fortunately, the preparations were completed on dry ground; it was the deluge the day before that brought the challenges. In true countryside spirit, when the gates opened at 6am, livestock, horses and traders streamed in.
A dull and muddy start quickly brightened up and the showing classes were underway. There was a fabulous turnout for the Highland Cattle Society National Show, which we were very proud to host this year. All cattle and sheep breeds were well represented. The pig entries surpassed all expectations and provided some entertaining spectacles in the pig ring. As always, Burwarton Show focuses on encouraging the young exhibitors and this was reflected in the Young Handler classes for cattle, sheep and pigs. The Hunter classes opened up the horse competitions with a smart turnout in the main ring. If you missed any of the horse classes, remember to visit the horse field next year.
Despite the dismal forecast, there was only one (substantial) shower that sent everyone running. Fortunately, it was short-lived and the afternoon brightened up to glorious sunshine; raincoats abandoned, sunglasses retrieved and the ground dried out very quickly. The main ring entertainment of Atkinson Action Horses and Twistmount Gundogs kept everyone mesmerised with their displays. The Grand Parade is always a feature of the Show and this year was no exception.
It’s time to say a few Thank Yous:
Firstly, to the Show Manager, the Committee, the stewards and all the volunteers that work so hard to make Burwarton Show happen. It certainly wouldn’t exist without you.
To the Livestock and Horse exhibitors. These animals are the heart of the countryside and why agricultural shows happen – to show off prime animals to the public.
To all the sponsors who have generously donated awards and prize money for all the competitions.
To the Tradestands. What an amazing array of shopping there was to be had. I’m sure you all went home with something new.
To all the entertainers around the showground and in the Main Ring. Children and adults alike will have learned something new and will have stories to tell.
To all the catering outlets and the Food Hall stalls. There was an amazing choice of food all around the Showground.
And finally, to the Members and Public who took the day off to visit the Show despite the forecast. We hope that you had a fabulous day. We are very grateful for all the positive feedback we have received. We will now spend the winter planning the next Burwarton Show and look forward to welcoming you on Thursday 1 August 2024.
