Preparations just about there for the Grantown Show
The Grantown Show is moving with the times with a new online entry system now in operation.
But would-be exhibitors will have to act fast as the deadline for entrants for this year’s big event is today(Friday).
A fun-packed entertainment programme has also been put together and one of the new additions is a post-show speed sheep shear to keep the crowds on site at the Heathfield Showground on August 8.
The final touches to the nearly 12 months preparation of the farming show are now being applied.
All that remains to be seen is if the event can dodge the rain that has fallen for large parts of this summer.
Show convener Scott Pirie joked: “It looks as if it is improving but I do not want to speak too soon! It has not been great.
“The showground is reasonably good all year round and there is not a lot of traffic on it so it tends to hold-up well even in the wet years.
“We have been really fortunate to have two great sunny shows in a row - in fact perhaps even too hot (for the livestock) - but some on the committee saying that we are due a wet Grantown Show at some point.
“What we do know for sure is that one will come along at some point!”
Mr Pirie said that land management was key and there was lots of experience on-board to ensure the smooth running of the show come rain or shine.
The afternoon entertainment includes David Walker with his Galcantray Clydesdale Display with six horses and MKM Bulk Bag Sack Race.
And new this year is the Fastest Farmer race - a veritable agricultural fun fest of tyre flipping, bale carrying, post chapping and wellie winding.
As for the banging in of a fence post, Mr Pirie said: “It is a skill to use a big hammer- and certainly one that I do not have!”
All are welcome to enter on the day - and not just farmers.
As usual, there will also be children’s race, the ever-popular terrier racing, the Cairngorm Alpacas will be on show as well as a host of trade stands.
This year’s pageant has the theme of ‘Nursery Rhymes’.
Mr Pirie said that entry numbers for the cattle, horses, sheep and food and crafts section were good but more are still welcome.
He commented: “Entries close tomorrow (Friday) so we would encourage exhibitors to get them in ASAP if they have not already done so.
“We have a new online entry system and we are encouraging people to make sure that they have completed their order and not left entries in the shopping basket by mistake.”
Admission costs have been pegged at £12 for adults, £8 for OAPs and £5 for children and parking is free. Gates open from 8am with livestock judging from 8.30am.
K and the Pupils will be providing the music the following night at the traditional show marquee dance. Tickets are priced £15.
Grantown Show president this year - taking over from Mr Pirie - is Suzie Young.
The show is still looking for helpers on the day, even for an hour or so to help with crowd control, litter picking or stewarding some livestock or domestic sections.
Anyone who can assist can contact show secretary Julie Grant on 07786 060359.
