Woolsery Show managed to hold its 121st event last week despite the awful unseasonable weather.

 “When we saw the forecast the week before, everyone rallied, and we built up the showground early to avoid working in the heavy rain. We were just so relieved that we were able to go ahead and didn’t experience too many problems. The well drained old pasture of the Clovelly Estate literally saved the day,” said Andrée Carter, show secretary.

Entries of trade stands, livestock and horses on Monday, July 31, were up on last year as people seem to be getting back into the routine of attending shows.  Heavy spells of rain during the day did not deter the public who turned up well prepared with boots and waterproofs, determined to enjoy themselves. The Stevenstone hound puppies, the fancy dress competition and the donkeys were big attractions.

Woolsery Show is a traditional rural show and it is well known for its friendly, welcoming and encouraging atmosphere. The show is run by volunteers from the local community who do feel passionately about the show with its long history and community roots.  Generations of families have been involved dating back to the early 1900’s. The location, format and content has changed over the years, but the local support is the backbone of this much-loved show.

Agriculture, environment and sustainability are at the core of the show’s educational remit and volunteers have worked hard to reduce unnecessary waste and profile those doing their bit for the planet. This year’s Sustainability Champion was judged by Tom Coles of Mitchell Dickinson who chose Keith Sutherland of Tamar Trees. Keith grows and supplies UK sourced native trees, from seed to sapling in his nursery in the Carey Valley, a tributary to the Tamar. His passion for native woodland security which in turn promotes wildlife habitats and supports and benefits our beautiful flora and fauna convinced Tom he was a worthy winner.

The president this year, Mark Shepherd, with his wife Sandra, chose North Devon Hospice as their charity. We hope they raised plenty of money with donations, collections and the guess the weight of the ewe and her two lambs’ competition. As always, the show will be donating a substantial chunk of any profits.  

Show champions

• Interbreed Beef – Tim Eustice with his two-year-old South Devon Heifer, Trevowah Pride 5, judged by Robert Dimond

• Interbreed Dairy - Stuart and Michelle Ley with their Holstein, heifer in milk, Hoops Raven Spangles Anna 2, judged by Matthew Norman

• Interbreed Sheep – Tom Nancekivell with his Charollais, old ewe judged by Harold Keast

• Supreme Horse – Sophie Williams, with her six-year-old, grey Irish Draught mare, Silver Lily of Mourne judged by Rosemary Penn