Blaston Show breaks more records

After the huge success of last year’s Show, 2023 was even better. Spectators streamed in to enjoy the livestock, tradestands, vintage vehicles and family entertainment – and of course the fabulous weather!

Equestrian entries were up, with showing and showjumping classes; Primrose from Great Glen won £50 for the Horse & Pony Accumulator riding Freddy, it was no surprise to hear that she specialises in showjumping!

It was a family affair for the Reeces. Father Andrew had brought Tinkerbell, a Belgian Blue cross Holstein heffer who was having a first outing, and Marshmallow, a pet lamb, which his two young daughters were showing in the Young Handler classes.

Jane Woodbridge and Martin Wallace were back again with their Swiss Valais Blacknose sheep. “They are gorgeous,” said Jane, “just look at them! They are a very friendly breed – Kracker is really inquisitive and wants to be friends with everyone.” Kracker was contesting the Continental Ram Lamb class.

From four legs to four wheels, the vintage tractor area was as impressive as ever. Blaston Show boasts one of the largest vintage tractor gatherings in the country. Close to 50 tractors were on display, and the Classic Car run was also well subscribed. The Howlings from Melton Mowbray were making a first visit to the show and entered their 1933 Alvis Speed 20 in the car run. “It was great, there were more cars than I was expecting,” Gavin Howling said. “The car got a bit hot, but she made it. There was a queue coming in to the main ring and a few of the cars were beginning to show signs of exhaustion – mine started running on five cylinders…

“It looks to be a lovely show. We’ll explore after a quick trip to the Beer Tent!”

The Rearsby Lodge Riding Club Quadrille Team put on an excellent display of precision riding, and the Westerby Basset Hounds, Pipewell Foot Beagles, Fernie Hounds and the Four Shires Blood Hounds were paraded in the main arena before greeting all the children eager to get up close.

Jackie and David Cook are long-standing supporters of the show. “We come every year. There is so much for the children to see – they love the livestock and the terrier racing, and David loves the tractors! It’s a great family day out,” Jackie commented.

There is, of course, a serious side to the Show, which also plays host to Modern Farming companies. Sam Harrison from Harrison Agri, Saddington, explained: “It’s important to support shows like this. The whole farming community from round and about is here today.

“It’s good for me to be able to show everyone what we’ve got and keep us in people’s heads. If we didn’t support shows like this, and they disappeared, there would be no opportunity for us to do that. Some of the older farmers don’t even know this kit exists. It’s great to be able to show them.”

Feedback from spectators, tradestand holders and exhibitors has been overwhelmingly positive. Social Media comments include, “Thank you to all for another amazing show”, “Such an enjoyable show, well done everyone involved”“Congratulations to all the people that make the show happen! So much hard work and effort. Well done team”, “One of the best shows yet. We had two tractors and a Morris lorry, and we had a great day”, “Another stunning show we had an amazing day”.

The show remains an eclectic mix of entertainment, truly something for all the family. Save the date for next year – our 65th Show date is Sunday 30th June.