Making a show of it

I know shows need to make money and appeal to as wide a cross-section of the community as possible, but they are turning into glorified car-boot sales with an extortionate entry fee.

Some of the larger shows no longer represent what they were originally set up for: a chance for pedigree breeders to show their stock; a place to meet with friends; and a day to relax from the repetitiveness of country life. Nowadays, shows are filled with stands hawking stuff you don’t need. Which is why it was such a joy to spend the day at Burwarton Show in Shropshire – a proper agricultural show.

The cattle and sheep were outstanding; the horses were beautiful, with a large showing of heavy horses; there were stands trading but selling goods you want or need living out in the country. The entry was reasonable, the sun shone, the cider was cooling and we all had a wonderful time. I realise economic factors affect how a show is run but the organisers of some of the bigger shows should take note. The team at Burwarton pull off an amazing one-day show that is a joy to attend. James Edgar

Bromyard, Herefordshire