Time for Chipping Show

There will also be on show Shetland, Shire and light horses and ponies together with a large poultry section plus egg and pigeon sections. One of the most popular attractions are the exhibits in the cakes, handicrafts, flowers and preserves classes together with lots of children’s classes in handwriting, photography and craft.

The cheese section has grown in stature over recent years under the guidance of Bob and Faye Kitching, of Leagram Organic Dairy. Most of the top national cheese makers will be displaying their finest products making the competition one of the keenest in the country. This year judging will be performed by celebrated industry specialists; Colin Ewen, from Taw Valley Creamery, in Devon, and Nigel Pooley, from Wyke Farms, in Somerset. Judging will be carried out on Friday afternoon so the cheese marquee will be open to the public all day on Saturday.

The dog show with entries taken on the day, promises to be a howling success as does the baby show which, this year will judged by Janet Simpson, of The Gibbon Bridge Hotel.

The horticultural section is delighted to have a new trophy and prize money donated by Mr Robert Cherry in memory of his parents Len and Sheila Cherry. The trophy will be presented to the best exhibit in the three children’s classes (up to 16). The competition among local schoolchildren, to see who has grown the best potatoes, will be keenly watched as will all the other fruit and vegetable classes that demonstrate the skill of local gardeners.

There are classes for members of young farmer’s clubs in the Lancashire Federation; Chipping YFC have done exceptionally well in YFC competitions recently and the prizes will be keenly contested at their home event.

The main ring highlight this year is the Gwynnedd Axemen demonstrating their lumber-jacking skills. In addition to the livestock judging in the morning main ring attractions include a magician show, children’s sports, junior shepherd and stockman competitions, a sheep-shearing demonstration, tug-of-war, tradesman’s turnout, egg catching and lawn mower racing. The fell race, organised by Preston Harriers, returns this year with the start and finish in the main ring.

There will be lots of trade stands, catering outlets, a licensed bar and the luncheon tent with catering by The Derby Arms.

Judging of livestock classes begins at 9.30am and the first show by the Gwenydd Racing Axemen is scheduled for 12-15 p.m. Admission is £8 for adults, £2 for children, car parking is free.