Countryside big days beat wet weather
Aug 26 2008 by Brian Daniel, The Journal
BANK holiday drizzle failed to cast a shadow on one of Northumberland’s most popular events yesterday.
The 116th Glendale Show took place on a wet, but not muddy, showfield near Wooler.
Rain on Friday had been a cause for concern, but a dry weekend guaranteed the ground was in satisfactory condition by showtime. Organisers were hoping for a crowd around the 13,000 to 14,000 mark, but had yet to tot up the final figures.
Glendale Agricultural Society chairman Tom Comber said: “After all the wet weather we are really pleased. The show has never been cancelled in its 116-year history for bad weather and after many wet days we are delighted to see the showfield is in really good condition and the crowd have turned up.”
Crowds enjoyed a motorcycle stunt display team, a dog show, terrier racing, horse classes, gardening, industrial and horticultural tents, trade stands and food stalls.
The livestock section made a welcome return after being cancelled last year because of foot-and-mouth, with sheep entries particularly high. But dairy goats were absent because of bluetongue restrictions.
Traditionally, most goat entries come from Durham, which is a disease protected zone, meaning travel into Northumberland is banned.
The Lucker Matters encouraged showgoers to help them make a hook and proggy mat bearing the logo of the agricultural society, although it appeared unlikely the big job would be completed by close of play.
Among the crowds was annual Glendale-goer David Barras, 38, of Fieldhouse Close, Acklington.
He said: “I thought it was a bit quieter than previous years, but it was up to the normal standard.”
A few miles away at Seahouses, the annual lifeboat fete took place at the harbour, with the lifeboats performing a rescue display with a search and rescue helicopter from RAF Boulmer.
Crowds were sparse in the morning, but picked up as the day went on and the rain held off until organisers were packing up.
Elsewhere, Blanchland and Hunstanworth Show went ahead as planned despite rain.
Crowds enjoyed music by Rendezvous Jazz, children’s sports, pony competitions, a fun fair, terrier show and falconry.
