County has cracker of a show lined up

May 24 2008 by Ben Guy, The Journal

ANIMALS of all shapes and sizes, motorcycle daredevils, stunt horsemen and parachutists will all be part of the Northumberland Show on Monday.

The traditional curtain raiser to shows in the county sees agricultural competitions taking place alongside family fun, and this year is to be no exception.

More than 20,000 people are expected at Tynedale Park, Corbridge, where they will be able to witness some animals for the first time at the show, along with the old favourites.

Among the first timers this year are the Zwartbles breed of sheep, which are black, tame and originate in Holland. Throughout the event, sponsored by The Journal, judges will decide on the best cattle, sheep, alpaca and goats.

Show chairman Thomas Harrison said preparations for the show had gone well and all that remained was for the weather to stay fine.

He added that there were a number of new attractions that would draw crowds as well as the traditional star breeds.

He said: “We have probably got more animals than we have ever had, which is great.

“On top of that we will have a Dairy Farmers of Britain milking demonstration that will be very good, as it will simulate a real life milking parlour.

“And of course there will also be things such as the sheep shearing competition, which always attracts a big crowd.”

Alongside the livestock there will be equestrian competitions, Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling, food demonstrations, live music and Irish Dancing.

And even more energetic entertainment will include the Kielder Water and Forest Park Mountain Bike Display Team, the Bolddog Freestyle Motocross Team and the Rockin’ Horse Equestrian Stunt Team.

To tickle the taste buds the food marquee will host 20 regional producers offering a host of goodies, ranging from ice cream to muffins and ale to chillis, bread and game.

After last year’s bird flu-enforced absence, the poultry section returns in style, with about 300 birds and 100 eggs set to be on display on the day.

A range of other displays will also take place, including a chainsaw carving demonstration, clog making, dry stone walling and horse shoeing.

The day will finish with the traditional RAF Spitfire fly past, followed by the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team. Mr Harrison added: “It all seems to be going to plan and everything is falling into place. What is good is that the whole thing is run on a voluntary basis, so once again we are grateful to all those who have helped out.”

The show starts at 9am and runs until 6pm. Tickets are £10 for adults, £6 for pensioners and £2.50 for children. Family tickets, £25, can be bought at the gate.

Page 2: Mother will compete against son for title