Irish-themed fun from Young Farmers at big show

Rushbury and Cardington YFC were worthy winners of the day, scoring an incredible 241 points, this being their fourth year of gaining first overall place. It was a fantastic achievement by the club. YFC Shropshire show secretary Victoria Rowlands congratulated members on their hard work and thanked all those who helped make the day run smoothly.

The Young Farmers marquee, packed with hundreds of entries on this year’s theme "Ireland", looked magnificent. Those who stopped by were treated to flower arrangements depicting islands, Irish food items such as potato bread, Irish bunting and mini "Titanic" ships made from scrap metal. The standard of entry was remarkable and the marquee showcased the talent and range of skills of members.

Throughout the day active classes offered some light-hearted fun for friends, family and show visitors. Great attempts at Irish accents, transformations into the best-dressed Irish characters and steeple chase relays made for some very amusing entertainment. Crowds gathered to watch a sheep shearing competition, with Rushbury and Cardington YFC’s Will Dale taking the winners’ trophy for speed and quality of shearing.

The highlight of the day was the YFC float parade. Hundreds of people gathered around the main ring to watch the spectacle, with 14 clubs proudly parading their decorated “Island” themed trailers in front of the judges. Wem YFC were delighted to be awarded first place with their take on the Island of Sodar, the location for the Thomas the Tank Engine books and TV series. It featured a moving Thomas the Tank Engine, spinning windmill and even a manned Harold the helicopter elevated by the tractor loader.

A bright pink Valtra tractor, raising money at the show for Breast Cancer Research, was loaned by Edward and Farmer Ltd to Dorrington YFC to pull their float and scooped the prize for “Best Turned-out Tractor”.

Catherine Faulkner, Shropshire YFC