Guilsfield show a big success

Record numbers of visitors at the annual Guilsfield Show were treated to horse shows, a display of vintage tractors, a horticulture tent full of floral and craft exhibits, and live music in the evening.

Organisers believe about 3,500 people – including local people and holidaymakers – attended yesterday's show.

Although official numbers have not yet been confirmed, such a figure would be a record.

The show, held on Fron y Fele Field in Groeslwyd, near Welshpool, has been running for almost 100 years and show president Phil Jones said this year's event was a success.

Mr Jones, who shares the presidency of the show with his wife Sue, said: "The weather held off, and that really helped with the numbers.

"I would even say yesterday attracted the most visitors we have ever had, it was record breaking.

"It was a really good family day out and everyone enjoyed themselves. Visitors came from 9am and stayed out until late in the evening as we had a live band on.

"We had lots of different things going on for people of all ages to enjoy.

"We had a fun fair, and an horticulture tent full of flowers so it wasn't just about the horses, although they do play a big part in it.

"There was also a birds of prey show, which the audience really loved, and it was something a bit different.

"What is nice about the show is that we get people coming from the village, but we also get people who are on holiday in the area also coming down to have a look.

"It also helps that it is in the summer holidays, as we get a lot of families coming visiting.

"We are almost on our 100th year, and it's such a great thing to be a part of."

While Guilsifeld Show is approaching its centenary, it has some way to go to beat other long running shows in the area.

Minsterley Show has been running since 1875 and claims to be Shropshire's oldest show, while Shropshire County Show, in its former guise as the West Mid Show, also has origins dating back to the late 19th century.