County ready to put on a show for everyone in May

THE Northumberland County Show is set to return next month with a range of new acts to impress the crowds.

The event attracts up to 30,000 people to the showground at Bywell, near Stocksfield, and organisers and visitors alike will be hoping for good weather on May 25.

As usual, there will be around 300 trade stands selling everything from food to tractors.

Last year’s inaugural ‘Game Fair’ makes its return after proving popular with visitors, who enjoyed giving their dogs a run in the gun dog scurry, watching birds of prey and gun dog demonstration, and enjoying game-themed catering.

Alongside the classics such as the crowning of the Champion of Champions and the Grand Parade, there are a host of new events and attractions at the show. The Main Arena act is Jonathon Marshall’s Free Spirit show, which will see professional falconer and horse trainer Jonathon riding equine TV star Amadeus, the black stallion from Game of Thrones and the Lloyds adverts while a falcon flies through the horse’s legs at speeds of up to 100mph.

The Knights of Chivalry will take the show back to the 13th century with armed combat tournaments between rival knights, stunts, and costumes. Alpaca section organisers Rachel and Paul Vaclik have set up a display pen of llamas for the first time and the Taste of the North food marquee is back with artisan produce, street food and local delicacies; while there is a selection of live music and activities for children throughout the day.

Tickets are on sale now at the Northumberland County Show website.