Thousands expected at Oswestry Show

With worries over the heatwave and lack of forage for livestock, the event will provide a welcome break for farmers.

Organisers say that the aim of the show, at the Park Hall Showground, is to promote agriculture and rural ideas.

The one-day show will include several hours of main ring entertainment, with the major attraction the Squibb Freestyle Motorcycle Stunt Team.

Other entertainment in the ring will include the Kipperidge Gundog Training team, the Tanatside Hounds and arming through the Ages - an insight from old to new ways of farming. This year the humble potato takes the spotlight in the pageant.

Local farmer and long-standing show council member Nigel Whittingham is chairman for the second year. He praised the strong band of volunteers who put on the event each year.

"They spend long hours getting the showground ready to welcome the competitors and visitors," he said.

Still volunteering is 91-year-old Philip Morris, a life member, who with his family, prepares more than 100 posters and banners for the event every year.

"Not only does the show endorse the best of British agriculture it promotes local businesses and activities, countryside pursuits and provides a varied programme of entertainment for visitors throughout the day," said Mr Whittingham.

Shearing

Competitors will hope to triumph in dozens of classes for cattle, horses, sheep, pigs and rare breeds. There is also a small livestock section although this year there will be no rabbits because of an outbreak of a virus affecting the animals in Britain.

One of the more popular competitions is sheep shearing with entrants racing against the clock to remove fleeces in record time.

"For 2018 we have been invited to be on the Welsh Lamb Shearing Circuit which should make for more exciting competition," the chairman said.

Away from the animals there will be a large vintage section with cars, motorbikes and tractors all lovingly restored and cared for by their owners.

More than 100 trade stands will also line the showground pathways.

Mr Whittingham said that elsewhere the Village Green will have a full programme keep visitors entertained from gymnastics to a fun circus workshop and punch and judy show.

"This year sees the return of the new extended horticultural marquee to showcase the best of Oswestry and the surrounding area together with craft, business, shopping and food marquees. There will also be inter club young farmer competitions."

Park and ride buses will take visitors to the showground from Oswestry Livestock Market and the Park Gates in the town centre every 15 minutes from 8.30am until 6.30am.