IT’S SHOWTIME

Showcasing the best of summer

Summer is almost here and the countdown to agricultural show season is on. This is the time of year when beer tents are busy, baked goods and preserves are fiercely competitive and farmers display their best animals. Agricultural shows are deeply rooted in our rural past, dating back to at least the 18th century when the Salford Agricultural Society is thought to have organised the first show in Lancashire in 1768. Traditionally, these gatherings were put together for farmers to encourage best practices in breeding livestock and crop production and for the public to enjoy displays, exhibitions and competitions relating to agriculture, forestry and horticulture. But, while remaining true to their origins, shows have evolved over the years to include the entire community in a fun-filled day celebrating the best of farming, food and the countryside. Agricultural shows are great places for farmers to come together and show off their stock and catch up over a dram or two. But it is also an educational and fun day for the whole family, especially if you do not have any farming background. Shows bring cultural benefits that enrich communities and build cohesion, including reconnecting an urban population with rural areas and helping build an understanding of food and farming. In the past, the competitions were limited to cattle, horses and sheep. Over the years, however, the field has broadened to include other animals, including pigs and fowl, as well as contests for vegetables, flowers, baking, preserves, dairy and handicrafts. Along with old favourites, new events are always being added to various shows’ line-ups. With delicious local fare, crowd-pleasing events such as terrier racing and dog shows, vintage farm equipment displays, shopping, scarecrow competitions, live music and children’s activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy at an agricultural show. There’s no better way to enjoy an authentic Scottish summer than by attending an agricultural show. Check out our guide to all the area’s fantastic shows and get ready to meet your friends for a fun day in the country.

WEST ARDNAMURCHAN SHOW Kilchoan, Friday July 21. This is a well-established show with a reputation for providing a fantastic family day out. The agricultural show starts the day at 9.30am, with the main family events following at 11.30am. The day includes children’s races with a hill race for seniors and juniors. There is also heavy events and a pet show, produce show and stalls. There is live music from Rhuvaal and refreshments on the field from 5pm. All this is in the beautiful Kilchoan setting, making for a memorable day. BUNESSAN SHOW Bunessan School Ground, Friday August 4. The first of the Isle of Mull’s two agricultural shows, this might be one of the smaller ones but it has a big heart and has a reputation for being one of the friendliest shows around. The show committee describes the event as a ‘traditional show’ with a full schedule of livestock classes plus plenty more for people to enjoy at the showground alongside the village primary school. The day ends in the traditional way, with a show dance in the village hall with Robert Nairn and the Kentra Ceilidh Band. KINTYRE AGRICULTURAL SHOW Anderston Park, Campbeltown, Friday August 4. Expect to see some of the best dairy and beef cattle, sheep and Clydesdales. Kintyre Show always has a good selection of stalls and attractions and fun and games from Campbeltown Young Farmers. This year, the main ring attraction is Mark Wylie’s Drakes of Hazzard. It’s fun for all the family and a day not to be missed. LORN AGRICULTURAL SHOW Common Grazings, Tralee Bay, Saturday August 5. The Common Grazings land is a phenomenal beach venue for a show which draws crowds from the farming community and people from miles around. The morning is given over to stock judging. The event is also home to the Oban Poultry Show. There is a traditional home industries tent, dog show, terrier racing and plenty equestrian events. If you want more horse power, look out for the vintage tractors. With Highland dancing competitions and a pipe band, the show committee has to be congratulated on creating a day out with such a wide appeal for everyone.