Farm traditions celebrated in rural heartland
FOR DECADES, the agricultural community has come together to celebrate a way of life that remains a key part of Yorkshire’s rural DNA.
That tradition is no different on the edge of the North York Moors, where a village renowned for its picture-postcard thatched cottages, and one that is repeatedly lauded as Britain’s prettiest, is firmly located amid some of the county’s farming heartlands.
Lowland pastures meet undulating upland terrain in the wider district of Ryedale, and the annual Thornton le Dales Show reflects that varied cross section of farming enterprises.
The show returned yesterday for a 99th occasion and attracted visitors from across the district, as a host of livestock was presented before the judges, from sheep, cattle and pigs to goats, working sheepdogs and horses, as well as poultry, rabbits, ferrets and pigeons.
And in a further reflection of rural tradition, there were competitive classes for categories from shepherd’s crooks to homemade sausages and pork pies.
Entertainment in the show rings was as varied as the industry that the show represents. A falconry display was given by James McKay, a freestyle motocross stunt show was delivered by Jamie Squibb and a spectacle of daring manoeuvres with fire was handled by Joseph Peace.
Elaine Hill demonstrated her sheepdogs’ ability to shepherd geese and a choreographed routine was brought to the arena by the Stampede Stunt Company.
Now on the cusp of its centenary year, Thornton le Dale Show’s enduring popularity – with about 14,000 people having been expected to pass through the showground gates again this year – is testament to a show season that continually evolves to enthuse new generations of visitors about an industry which defines rural Yorkshire.
The county has a long tradition of summer shows and the season is now reaching its mid-way point.
Among the upcoming dates are Ripley Show on Sunday, Danby Show on Wednesday next week and events at Rosedale, Gargrave and Mirfield over the weekend of August 18 and August 19.