Letter from Nigel Jones, Show Chairman
Nearly 6 months have elapsed since I was elected as Chairman of the Show and as we speed through June things are coming to a head and the realisation that the Show is only some 8 weeks away becomes a stark reality.
The ever popular gardens competition is taking place on the 15th & 16th June when local gardeners open their gardens to the judging panel. I know that the standard will be exceptional and the judges will have a hard time in selecting from what undoubtedly will be a result of many hours of work on behalf of the entrants.
In the third week of June our attention will turn to the young farmers stock judging competition which again is an extremely enjoyable and interesting event. This year it is being hosted by last years President, Annie Crutchley at Marsh Farm, Nettlecombe and I look forward to being humbled by the knowledge of the young farmer entrants in not only the way that they correctly judge the animals that are put in front of them, but also the manner which they explain why one cow is deemed to be a better specimen than another. It is certainly not all guess work!
Behind the scenes there is intense activity at the Show office with Anita Ford, Liz Pawley and our new Deputy Secretary Lucy Hart all dealing with the background organisation not only in relation to the infrastructure that is required for the day, but also trade stand enquiries and entries for the various classes.
The main ring attractions have been booked and we look forward to seeing the White Helmets motorcycle display team and the ever popular Rockwood Dog display team. A further new attraction will be the 6 bar show jumping in the main ring towards the end of the day which will be extremely exciting. This competition raises the height of the fences during each round of jumping with the winner inevitably jumping fences that will make the spectators gasp in appreciation.
Finally, as many members and regular show goers will know, this will be our Show Secretary Anita Ford’s last show as she is moving away from the area. May I take this opportunity of wishing her the very best of luck in the future. Similarly I must formally welcome Lucy Hart who will take over from her in September. Liz Pawley who has been assisting Anita over the last few years is also retiring in September and can I take this opportunity of thanking her for her sterling efforts on behalf of the Show.
Finally all we need now is the right weather and a good crowd on the day to enjoy the efforts that are being put in behind the scenes on their behalf.
Nigel Jones
Show Chairman (2010)
