Pets can win prizes at the county show

CUTE cockapoos and dashing dachshunds will be invited to take to the ring when the Derbyshire County Show hosts a familyfriendly dog show at the event next month.

Organisers of the show have got their rosettes at the ready to reward visitors’ four-legged friends in categories which include waggiest tail, cutest puppy and golden oldie.

The show, which takes place at the Elvaston Showground on June 26, is returning following a twoyear hiatus caused by the pandemic with a focus on creating a fantastic family day out.

Visitors to the 140th Derbyshire County Show can expect all the traditional elements they have come to expect, including livestock, agriculture and countryside living.

But organisers also want to include families whose animals are domestic rather than working and is hoping that the UK-wide increase in the numbers of dog owners, whose numbers soared during lockdown, will help to swell visitor numbers on the day.

As well as the companion classes there is also a section for pedigree breeds, whose owners are expected to travel many miles to show off their pets.

Edward Hicklin is chairman of the Derbyshire County Agricultural and Horticultural Society, which puts together the show.

He said: “No matter what breed they are, most dogs really enjoy taking part in these activities and it’s particularly lovely when a young person enters their pet and they come out with a rosette, grinning from ear to ear.

“So many people got a dog during lockdown because it was an excuse for them to go out and get some exercise, so we’re expecting to see quite a few people bringing their dogs along on the day.”

New for this year will be Shetland pony racing, giant tortoises and a performance from the lumberjack sports team the Welsh Axemen.

Stannage Stunt Team will perform death-defying acts including motorbike jumps, high falls and quad bike stunts during two 30-minute shows in the main ring.

Elsewhere there will be prizewinning livestock, a food and drink festival showcasing the best local producers, equine competitions, alpaca walking, vintage vehicles and fly fishing demonstrations.

Dogs can be entered on the day. It costs £2 per dog per class, or £5 for three classes per dog.

For more details and to buy show tickets, which are free for accompanied under-16s, visit www.derbyshirecountyshow.co.uk