A bit of hail can’t stop the dog show

The Shadoxhurst dog show with more than 20 “fun and serious” classes was a resounding success - despite Saturday’s hail showers.

The village’s Green Farm Fields was packed with people as the fun, organised by the 1st Baden-Powell Scout Group, got under way at 10.30am.

The village fete, in its fifth year, included the dog show, stalls, horse and cart rides, a giant inflatable slide and craft activities.

One important guest did arrive – as well as Ashford mayor Cllr George Koowaree. It was a llama, which tried its luck at some of the dog agility courses.

Organising committee chairman Roland Cooper said: “We are Scouts, we carry on regardless. It was a good year, but it wasn’t our best, but we have done ever so well given the storms and so much rain in the week.”

He thanked the communitybased businesses for their support on the day and in the run-up to the event.

Machinery and materials had been donated after the heavy rainfall made the field very wet and muddy.

“Everyone has rallied around and it has been absolutely fantastic,” he added. Scouts Chloe Daniels and Charlotte Croucher in balloon hats Pictures: Paul Amos

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FM4398535 Toffee wrapped up nice and dry as Sienna Farrance and Shannon Beaney get ready to show her

FM4398519 Aisha Allen, five, and mum Becci Robinson meet shire horses Alfie and Arthur

FM4398531 Leo gets a brush, ready for judging, from owner Jenny Houghton

FM4398538 A first for Chris Rogers and dog Basil in the Best Rescue class