Old and new at Slaley Show's 151st birthday

Aug 3 2010 By The Journal

BYGONE days will be revived as one of Northumberland’s biggest shows celebrates its 151st birthday later this month.

Thousands are expected to attend the Slaley Show on August 14, which will have a range of activities from the past century.

Dry stone walling, brass bands and Punch and Judy will all be showcased at the special event at the Townhead end of the village.

More than 4,000 people flocked to the show last year, marking the largest attendance in recent years. Newly-appointed leader of the show committee, Jim Bailey, is hopeful the show can build on last year’s success.

He said: “I’m confident that we will produce an event that will match that of the 150th celebration.

“We’re a mixture of the old and the new and pooling together ideas and efforts keeps our traditional show fresh. All we ask is for a fine day.”

Activities at the show will include a display of dry stone walling, rare breed Highland cattle, children’s entertainment and Irish dancing. A rise in entries has been seen across the different sections of the show, from the photography and handicrafts to the horticultural section.

Entertainment in the main arena will include terrier racing and a beagle parade by the Newcastle and District Beagle Association.

The show will be held on August 14, beginning at 9am.

Entrance for adults will be £4, concessions £3, children under 12 free, and there will be free car parking available.