Horses will be stars of the County Show

Two rare breeds of horse will be at this year’s Shropshire County Show on Saturday, the Percheron and the Suffolk Punch, who are set to thrill lovers of all things equine.

The Percheron hails from the Huisne River Valley in France and is known to have been in existence in that region since at least the 1600s. It was originally bred as a war horse and was later used to pull stagecoaches.

It’s strength made it an obvious choice as a draught horse and was ideal in tackling heavy tasks. It was extensively used during World War l and although its population declined after World War ll, its numbers have grown again in recent years.

The Suffolk Punch is another draught horse, whose numbers have dropped off in recent years, but they are excellent show horses and always prove popular with visitors to events.

Ian Bebbington, director of the Shropshire and West Midlands Agricultural Society, which organises the show, said: “We are delighted to confirm these two rare breeds will be with us at the Shropshire County Show. It’s a thrilling prospect for horse lovers and we are sure they will be a big hit with visitors.”

The horses are part of a packed programme at this year’s event, which promises something of interest for people of all ages.

From early morning there will be something to entertain visitors, including the return of the Imps motorcycle display team.

The Wirral Marching Piping Band will be performing on the day and there will be a display of horses and carriages, the best breeds of cattle, sheep and horse and dog shows.

Show-goers will get the chance to see the first round of the British Tractor Pulling Championships and there will also be a kids zone with a huge T-Rex roaming the showground, a hay bale maze, Army activities and street entertainers, including Magic Kev and the Animal Man.

Advance tickets are on sale. For more information visit www.westmidshowground.com