Celebration of farming's best and a decade (From Smallholder)

Celebration of farming's best and a decade

6:50am Wednesday 17th October 2012 in News

 Record entries and a tenth anniversary to celebrate mean that this weekend’s Countryside Live is all set for success.

The little sister of the annual Great Yorkshire Show opens its doors at 9am on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 October, for an insight into rural life and a fun day out for the family.

First held following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease in 2001, it has gone from strength to strength with a record number of visitors through the gate last year (10,700) and this year there’s an all time high for the competitive classes of 3,184. There are classes for cattle, sheep and horses, as well as pigeons, poultry and honey plus the popular “Search for a Talented Show Jumper” competition, hosted by experts Graham and Tina Fletcher.

Bill Cowling, Show Director said: “Countryside Live began a decade ago with only 400 entries. Each year it has grown and becoming an important fixture on the rural calendar. Our aim is to stage an enjoyable event which appeals to all the family, coupled with the more business element, ie the livestock classes for cattle and sheep. It is also important as a meeting place for the rural community, all of which combines to make a super event.”

For the first time a number of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society awards will be made at the event, namely medals to the best agricultural students in the North of England, the long service awards to those who have worked in the industry for more than 40 years, and the winner will be announced of the prestigious Tye Trophy Award, which recognises excellent farming practice.

And also new is the Northern Show Cross Final in the equine section which is sponsored by Bishop Burton College, plus mountain biking, ferret racing and the One Man and His Pig demonstrations.

Back by popular demand are Carol and Philip Mellin, stars of TV’s ‘The Dales’ programme with their sheepdog demonstrations, the popular Diggerland Experience is returning whilst would-be Robin Hoods will have the chance to put their archery skills to the test. For youngsters there is the Country Crafts Experience with a host of hands-on activities for children of all ages.

Another popular aspect of Countryside Live is the Fruit, Vegetable and Flower Show, there are also dog agility competitions, tug of war contests and Richard Savoury’s fun-filled Sheep Show. Plus there is the Food Zone, the Story Barn and plenty of shopping opportunities.

Please note dogs, other than assistance dogs are not allowed on the showground. For more information see www.countrysidelive.co.uk