Glorious sunshine for the Newport Show
Thousands of people enjoyed glorious sunshine at the "record breaking" 102nd Newport Show. Thousands of people enjoyed glorious sunshine at the "record breaking" 102nd Newport Show. Show bosses said they would not know the exact attendance until later this week, but added full car parks and a large number of visitors on foot suggested that last year's record of 13,000 visitors may have been smashed at the weekend. Show manager Clare Farrell said: "We had a really busy day. "Cars were parked further back than normal, so that suggests numbers are up. The new park and stride scheme was well used as well. "Judging by the number of people walking around, I think it might be record- breaking."
Thousands of people enjoyed glorious sunshine at the "record breaking" 102nd Newport Show.
Show bosses said they would not know the exact attendance until later this week, but added full car parks and a large number of visitors on foot suggested that last year's record of 13,000 visitors may have been smashed at the weekend.
Show manager Clare Farrell said: "We had a really busy day.
"Cars were parked further back than normal, so that suggests numbers are up. The new park and stride scheme was well used as well.
Farmers from all over the country brought their animals to the event at Chetwynd Deer Park on Saturday.
Hundreds of awards were given out for the best horses, livestock and dogs. There was also a well-supported horticultural competition.
And there was plenty to keep families entertained, including a giant food hall, 192 trade stands and performances from Stallions of Substance and freestyle motocross stunt team Jamie Squibb.
Meanwhile, on the Village Green there was entertainment from The Whitchurch Dog Display Team, Newport Olympic Gym Club and Stafford Morris Men.
Show president Bob Oakes said he was delighted.
"I was a bit worried at 2am on Saturday when I could hear rain outside," he said. "But the weather was brilliant in the end.
"I enjoyed everything. We've had probably the biggest entry of shire horses in the country, and the dog show was terrific."
Last year visitors faced queues of more than an hour to enter the showground. But an extra entrance near Chetwynd Church eased problems this time.
Mr Oakes added: "We got people through the gates without having to queue, so that's great.
"Tell me another show where you don't have to queue.
"It's a really good thing for Newport. People have a real appetite for agriculture shows around here."
About 120 people made use of the 'park and stride' scheme by leaving their cars at Newport Rugby Club on Forton Road and walking the rest of the way.
Mr Oakes thanked all exhibitors, competitors and visitors for their support.
By Sean Wozencroft
