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Crowds dodge rain at Bakewell show
A RAINY start failed to dampen spirits – as visitors flocked to the 180th Bakewell Show.
Organisers promised one of the best shows yet – with the Royal Artillery motorcycle display team, topping the bill and regular favourites such as the Bakewell Silver Band, show jumping and Titan the robot on hand to entertain the crowds.
Janet Bailey, show manager, said: "We are expecting 65,000 over the next couple of days and there is plenty to see and do.
"It is a bit wet underfoot but if you've got to bring your wellies, why not? It all adds to the experience."
She added: "There are a lot of families here this year and we've really gone overboard on activities for children."
The site was alive with activity as farmers and traders from across the country took part in the biggest date in the country show calendar
As well as animal shows, a variety of food stores, with everything from Women's Institute cakes to Jimmy's Farm sausages, crafts, mammoth vegetables and elegant flower arrangements were on display.
Craft jeweller Allan Horsfield, of Lea, has been coming to the show for 18 years.
He said: "There is a loyal band of people that come every year. There are some really nice, unusual crafts on offer. It is a very busy show and well supported."
Stalls were also dotted around the site selling everything from new walking shoes to cars.
Children's attractions included Punch and Judy shows, fairground rides, a beach area with donkey rides and bucket and spades and a variety of competitions for youngsters.
Prize-winning sheep and cattle were on also show.
Cattle steward Carol Mycock said Dales farmers had enjoyed a good year, despite plunging milk prices.
She added: "This year hasn't been too bad but milk prices are still an issue and there are a lot of dairy farmers in this area.
"I think this year at the show we have really good entries in all classes. It always draws a good crowd and people are amazed at all the different breeds."
Other highlights included the popular dog show which had an extra 30 entries with breeds from Tibet, Canada, and Spain, performances from the Storybag Theatre company, an exhibition of vintage bikes and for equine enthusiasts there was showjumping in the Grand Parade.
Elsewhere, food demonstrations took place and visitors had a chance to pick up cookery tips and learn how to make prize-winning cheese.
Today the show continues with more family fun, demonstrations and exhibitions.
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Weather for Bakewell
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
