The build up to Trawden Agricultural Show

It promises to be better than ever with agricultural competitions and a range of displays and attractions which will pull in visitors from far and wide.

The fun and games start on Friday, with the annual shindig and the show itself will be held on Trawden Recreation Ground on August 14th.

The shindig will start at 7-30 p.m. and feature local band Tyro and a pie and pea supper. There will also be bucking bronko rides. Tickets cost £5 and are available from Andrea Hartley on 07786 155357.

This year’s livestock classes see a return of some rare breeds after an absence of more than 10 years.

Entries include native sheep such as Romney March which are native to Kent and Hebrideans from Scotland.

Trawden breeder Clare Shevalan will bring her endangered North Ronaldsay sheep and there will also be Golden Guernsey goats and Gloucester cattle which are both rare with less than 750 remaining.

In the large marquees smaller exhibits such as poultry, rabbits, cage birds, horticulture and typical rural crafts will be on display.

Popular attractions such as the horse show and drystone wall competitions also return.

In the main ring, at 10 a.m. and 3-15 p.m., the Black Rock Llamas will be putting on a show. Three llamas in racing colours will negotiate an obstacle course including jumps, slalom poles and tunnels. Each llama will be assisted by a member of the crowd in a bid to become supreme agility champion.

At 10-45 a.m. in true Vicar of Dibley style, St Mary’s Church in Trawden will conduct animal blessings in the main ring. All animals and their owners are welcome.

Throughout the course of the day visitors can also enjoy puissance horse jumping, a shire horse display, tractor pulling and bale tossing, junior fun races, a livestock grand parade, vintage vehicle parade and terrier racing in the main ring.

The chairman of Trawden Agricultural Society, Jacqueline Hawkins said: “Preparations for the show are going really well. This year we have noted an increase in the amount of support from local businesses in terms of sponsorship, advertising and trade stands.

“I am looking forward to seeing the llama display, the livestock classes and other attractions including alpacas, reptiles, ferrets, dog agility the fell race and the majestic shires.

“Let’s just hope we get the weather!”

For those wishing to drive to the show there is free parking adjacent to the showground. There are also complimentary buses running from Colne. For more information about the service call 447611.

The showground will open at 10 a.m. Tickets cost £6 for adults and £3 for children.