International showjumping competition moving to Oswestry
As Oswestry Show organisers prepare to open the gates on this year's event they have revealed that a new festival will move to the town this year, bringing thousands of pounds into the economy.
The Park Hall Showground will be used not only to host the annual Oswestry Show, which take place on Saturday, but as a venue for local and national events throughout the year.
International showjumping event, the Scope Festival – with £150,000 prize money, will be held from August 20-26 – moving from its traditional venue in Staffordshire.
Show president, Mr Steve Mosford, said the event was a major coup for the Oswestry and District Agricultural Society.
"We are expecting hundreds of competitors at the event over the week from across the UK and further afield.
"They will be staying in the area, eating at local restaurants and cafes, shopping locally and putting fuel in their vehicles. It all brings money into the Oswestry economy."
Saturday's Oswestry Show is expected to attract more than 15,000 visitors with a full day of entertainment.
Mr Mosford said it was a day that brought together town and country.
"It is a really big day out for visitors. We are a traditional show where people can see the magnificent farm animals and discover where their food comes from.
"Agriculture is hugely important to the economy of the area from farms to the companies that supply those farms.
"Oswestry continues to have a vibrant economy and it is still noticeable that on market day, which both the livestock market and retail market are on, that the town is busy."
A veterinary surgeon in the area for 35 years, Mr Mosford said one of his favourite part of the show was the heavy horse section.
"There are not many places left where you can see these magnificent animals," he said.
This year's main ring attractions include a Field Gun display, echoing the previous history of Park Hall, a former army camp.
Teams race to dismantle, move and re-assemble former Royal Tournament, 12-pounder guns.
There will also be a display by The company of Horsemen is a family run business based in Staffordshire who put on a spectacular jousting tournament.
Show chairman, Mr Nigel Whittingham, said the show could only go ahead because of the band of volunteers who gave up their time to help not only on Saturday but in the days leading up to the event.
Tickets are available on line, www.oswestryshow.co.uk, from the show office at Park Hall or from a range of outlets in and around Oswestry.
