THE 156th Weardale Show at St John’s Chapel took place today (Saturday) and turned out to be everything the huge crowd of people expected – and more.
There was so much to see and do, the field was a hive of activity that it was difficult to decide just what to do and see first. On the approach to the entrance, the Dry Stone Walling competition was well underway with competitors busily searching for just the right stone. Organised by the Dry Stone Walling Association, it is always an attraction and a spectator sport, of sorts.
Once inside the field, the children were off straight away to enjoy the entertainment completely free! These included fairground rides, bouncy castles and slides, a climbing wall, archery, face-painting and the staff from the Weardale Adventures, based at Ireshopeburn, who offered Bushcraft, which included marshmallow toasting. The kids were in their element! These free activities and entertainment saved us grandparents and parents a fortune. Thank you!
There were dog shows and agility for most of the day; horse classes galore, gun dogs, cattle and sheep classes to keep the crowds occupied. Trade stands too, Craft and Farmers’ Market Tents, the Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team among them.
This show is a truly traditional one with everything you would expect from an agricultural event with old friends meeting up and new ones made; whole families coming together, some from far afield too. The very essence of a rural, farming community was on display like nothing else can match. A friendly show with a calm and happy atmosphere, there was something for everyone. This is included the return of Stanhope Silver Band, which was the talk of the show. As they struck up in a marquee at the back of the field, the music wafting across the whole area, there were excited whispers of ‘the band is back! The band is back!”. And they gave two appearances with music from different genres to the delight of the crowd that gathered to watch and listen.
Meanwhile, the display of motorbikes and vintage cars, organised by the Weardale Lions MCF Supporters, was also proving a popular attraction. Lee Johnson and John Carrick had organised the display of vintage tractors too. In the main ring, Walworth Birds of Prey were entertaining those sat on hay bales around the arena with interactive falconry displays. The Weardale Young Farmers Club had a busy time, manning their stall with a tombola and other fundraising activities and later entertained everyone with a lively competition that included two of them dressed as cows in inflatable costumes. This was followed by a welly tossing competition and later a young people’s bale-stacking contest! The laughter could be heard in Wearhead!
Inside the band marquee was the bar, run by the Blue Bell from the village and cooking demonstrations by Chef Richard. At 2pm prompt, as tradition dictates, saw the start of the gruelling fell race. Spectators stood in the field, casting their eyes to the hills, watching the runners and wishing they were as fit.
The judging done in the produce, handicrafts, horticulture and floral Art tent, the crowds flocked to see who had taken prizes in the numerous categories. Little Paws Ferret Rescue entertained in the main ring too at one point. There was so much going on that it was difficult to know which way to turn! Although the traditional game of quoits was a good choice.
The day ended with Music in the large marquee, provided by Jason Arnup and Nicola Galvin. All-in-all, it was a thoroughly enjoyable day that was worth all of the effort put it in by the hard-working committee. Well done to each and every one – you certainly made it a day to remember.
