Revamp planned for Shropshire County Show
The Shropshire County Show will next year be split to create the region’s first major horse event and give the annual extravaganza a makeover, it was revealed today.
The annual event at the Berwick Road Showground in Shrewsbury, which attracts thousands of visitors from across the country, will take the form of the Shropshire County Horse Show on May 19, 2012, and the Shropshire County Agricultural Show on May 26, 2012.
The move has been made following feedback from traders, exhibitors and visitors at this year’s show and will create a new and vibrant agricultural event, led by show director Bernie Hutchinson. The Shropshire County Horse Show will be organised by top horsewoman Christine Madeley.
Shropshire County Show chairman Neale Sadler said: “Following this year’s show, the overwhelming comments and feedback received were that everyone wanted a one-day show, especially the agricultural trade and livestock exhibitors. From a Society point of view, we listened to the comments, and the trustees felt the show suited a one-day format much better.
“A one-day agricultural show and a one-day horse show would be the best balance. Separating the two solved a few logistical problems on the showground, and I think it will benefit both the horse and agricultural sections.
“These two days will appeal to the wider audience and open more opportunities, including being able to increase the attractions at the agricultural show.”
Mr Hutchinson, show director for 2012, said: “The decision has been made due to changes in agriculture, to accommodate industry and due to the need for a one-day show to make it more vibrant.
“To consolidate the agricultural show on one day will make it more of a focal point and I look forward to being director of the 2012 event.”
The agricultural industry are heavily represented at the Shropshire County Show and it was following feedback from a number of exhibitors and traders that the decision to move to a one-day agricultural event was made.
Robert Ball, managing director of Rea Valley Tractors, said: “I think it is a good, positive move that will allow the committee to channel all of their energy into one day.
“I think it will benefit exhibitors and traders, particularly in the agricultural machinery field. I am very much in favour of a one-day show if it takes the show back to its agricultural roots.”
Rupert Farmer, of Edwards & Farmer Ltd in Bayston Hill, said: “I think it is a very good idea because we can have a specialised agricultural show for Shropshire.
“I think a lot of exhibitors were put off by the fact they had to dedicate two days so I think it will be much better as a one-day show.”
Mrs Madeley said she is looking forward to the first ever Shropshire County Horse Show, which will include all horse competitions except showjumping and in-hand heavy horse classes which will be held during the agricultural event.
