Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show, August 15th 2012
In 2011, the Gillingham & Shaftesbury agricultural show had one of the most successful ever, and what made it so special was the visitors – a record number of visitors, who were so keen that we had to open the gates early. The demand for the free shuttle bus services from Gillingham & Shaftesbury was so great that extra vehicles were pressed into service and more cars were parked on site than ever before.
Entries in all the livestock sections were far better than expected, especially in the sheep classes. A larger home-handicraft marquee had been erected and this was filled to capacity with garden produce, cookery and preserves, handicrafts, photos and especially the children’s entries. One of the most unexpected features was the huge increase in the number agricultural trade stands. There were 35 new agri trade exhibitors – this most welcome increase must be a record for any show! We have always boasted that the G & S is a show where agricultural companies can come to business and this year we have certainly been blessed with wonderful support from the agricultural trade.
Looking forward to 2012, the attractions in the main ring will include a very exciting Heavy Horse Musical Drive with all of the wagons being drawn by Suffolks. Also featuring will be Double Harness Scurry Driving – that is a pair of ponies drawing a lightweight cart through a course of cones at high speed! The Countryside ring programme will include birds of prey, terrier & ferret racing and gundog demonstrations. The Homemaker Cookery Theatre will feature local chefs using produce sourced from our Food Hall. Music will be provided by the Cornish Wurzells and other local groups.
Thank you, to all the willing volunteers who work so hard to make the G & S so successful, to all the exhibitors because you are the most important part of the show and to the visitors, whose very presence make it all worth while.
Show Secretary
The 2012 Show
Schedules & Trade packs will be available early in the New Year
