Photos: Thousands enjoy Blaston Show

More than 2,500 people enjoyed the 59th Blaston Show at the weekend.
Youngsters take part in the tug of war.
PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTERYoungsters take part in the tug of war.
PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTER
Youngsters take part in the tug of war. PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTER

Blue skies and sunshine were the order of the day, and competition was fierce across all the diverse classes, from equestrian to cattle, sheep, dogs and vintage cars.

Entries were strong – particularly in the Fancy Dress contest which was won by a spectacular Air Ambulance; a fibreglass yellow helicopter perched atop the tiniest shetland pony, Fine Time Florence. It was constructed by Peter Richardson, Lilly Richardson and Olivia Taylor, clad in paramedic clothing.

The terrier racing and tug of war competitions were serious crowd pleasers, with young and old joining in.

Fun during the bale rolling event.
PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTERFun during the bale rolling event.
PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTER
Fun during the bale rolling event. PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTER

Not everyone was seeking a prize. Octegenarian Maurice Brown of M &CJ Brown was displaying his pygmy goats, while Monica Russell was using her sheepdog to herd...ducks!

A stunning array of classic vehicles and vintage tractors were on show, a huge contrast to the latest agricultural machinery on the market which was lined up in force.

Mark Wildman, JCB brand manager for Sharmans Agricultural Ltd, said: “We are a local firm with our roots in Leicestershire and Northamptonshire. It’s a pleasure to share a cup of tea and a biscuit with existing clients, and we’ve picked up new leads all day.”

Tony Armstrong, area sales manager for Chandlers Farm Equipment, said: “Coming to Blaston Show gives us an opportunity to support the farming community – and I love seeing young children climbing all over the machinery, asking questions, and showing a real interest in farming.”

Fun during the bale rolling event.
PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTERFun during the bale rolling event.
PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTER
Fun during the bale rolling event. PICTURE: ANDREW CARPENTER

Blaston Show has donated around £20,000 to local charities over the last five years, and this year’s main beneficiary is Warning Zone, an interactive life skills centre that helps children in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Blaston Show chairman, Oliver Lee. “I can’t emphasise how much work goes into the organisation of the day, but seeing so many people of all ages having such fun makes it all worthwhile. The earlysigns are that it is going to be a very successful year in financial terms, which further strengthens the Show for the future.”