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The Melplash Agricultural Society Show is the South West's premier agricultural exhibition and is held at The West Bay Showgrounds, Bridport, Dorset on last Thursday before the August Bank holiday. The first show was held in 1847. The 161st Melplash Show is on Thursday 21st August 2008 and is scheduled to be another great event.
On site preparation will start on Friday 15th August with the launch of the bridge over the River Brit. This will be an auspicious occasion as it is the 25th time since Don Townsend (Townsend Engineering), who skilfully engineered the bridge, has put it in place with the help of 4 men and heavy lifting gear. The Bridge is a vital part of the plan for a successful Show day.
There is a full complement of animals on show this year. The cattle, pig, goat and sheep sections have been well supported despite the problems with Blue Tongue and the increased cost of diesel! As usual all the horse classes are well populated including the heavy horses and donkeys. Entries for all the handicraft and horticultural classes have been very good.
This year’s Food Hall will be packed with local producers who will be displaying their wares for you to sample and purchase. The second River Cottage Handbook – on Preserves this time – has just been published and author Pam Corbin will be there signing copies and talking about jams and preserves; Mark Hix, who has brought his cooking skills from The Ivy to Lyme Regis, will also be signing copies of his inspiring cookery books, including his book British Regional Foods which features some of our local producers such as Denhay Farm. You will also be able to pre-order his new book British Seasonal Foods which is due to be published in October.
There are two new food courts, both will be serving local and regional fare including hog spit roast, barbequed venison and lamb burgers, fish and chips, strawberries and cream, and fruit smoothies.
The popular Country Side Area sponsored by C J Fry and Kingcombe AquaCare will again provide visitors with a showcase for many country pursuits.. gun dogs and lurchers, falconry, ferret and terrier racing. There are the otters, sponsored by Old Mill Accountancy Services, and also the bees, this year featuring a working hive.
In addition, there are attractions in the main ring, sponsored by Toolstation, including the Red Devils parachuting team, Jousting by teams on horseback, and the Naval hot air balloon, as well as a full programme of Show jumping and the magnificent Grand Animal parade.
It is truly going to be a great day’s entertainment for all the family.
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