North Devon Show is back by popular demand

North Devon Show is back this August following an outpouring of public support and despite suffering heavy losses last year due to freak weather that turned the car parks into a quagmire.

It was touch and go if one of the most popular events on the local calendar would be able to return but by public demand it will be back at Umberleigh Showground on Wednesday, August 7.

Last year, unseasonable heavy rain turned the show field into a swamp, putting off many visitors from going and forcing organisers to shut the car parks by 1pm because the mud was becoming so bad.

A herculean effort by volunteers, including many Young Farmers, saw the car park finally cleared by 8pm, with many vehicles having to be towed out by tractor.

Despite that disappointment of event conditions and the loss of £98,000 in ticket revenue – a huge amount for a not-for-profit event to bear, the show committee have been bolstered by support from the public, who have been getting behind this year’s show by raising funds and promoting reduced rate early bird tickets.

Above: North Devon Show is back for August 2024 despite the trials of last year. Credit: North Devon Show

Show secretary Theresa Soanes said: “We run a not-for-profit charity event and it was touch and go as to whether we would be able to continue.

“However, the support of local people here in North Devon has been amazing, quite heart-warming really. Everyone could see that we were hit by a freak weather system last year, the like of which hadn’t been seen in early August for many a year. The amount of rainfall was just too challenging for us, as it would have been for any outdoor event.

“We apologised to our visitors as it wasn't the sort of day out they had hoped for. However, since then, we have had many goodwill messages, encouraging us to carry on, with people saying they will support the show as it’s always been their favourite day out of the year.

“We have the North Devon Community Lottery supporting us, we've held auctions and raffles to raise funds, and we now have the ‘buy the show a coffee’ campaign and our easyfundraising online shopping scheme, which you can find details of on our website, www.northdevonshow.com.”

North Devon Show is for many a ‘must’ event on the region’s calendar, as an agricultural and countryside show but also as a very popular day out.

The show is a hub of activity for farmers, livestock owners, equestrians, local businesses, craft, food and drink suppliers.

Its many animals from sheep and goats to cattle, pigs, alpacas and poultry are always a big draw, together with a range of much-loved performances in the many show rings and plenty of live action entertainment for families and visitors.

This year will see the ever-popular giant tortoises return, as well as a live music stage throughout the day, a meet and greet animal area, fairground rides and numerous traders to ensure there really is something for everybody.

In addition there will be the popular food and craft halls, dog show, vintage vehicles, education area, countryside pursuits and demonstrations plus much more.

Above: Countryside pursuits such as clay shooting remain a foundation of North Devon Show. Credit: North Devon Show

To prepare for this year, the showground bus stop is being moved for easier access and a new app will also be available soon with maps, trader information, timetables and updates.

Fundraising over the past year has helped to dent the ever-increasing costs for organisers of hiring marquees, tents, equipment and general expenses.

Ms Soanes added: “We are calling out for people to support their local Show, by contributing to our funds in whatever way they can.

“We have early bird show tickets available at reduced rates, and we encourage people to become members and sponsors. There are numerous ways people and businesses can support the show so please do get in touch. All contact details are on our website.

“We have an amazing team of more than 100 volunteers and only two paid staff! We really do need all the help and support we can get.”

To buy tickets and find out more about how you can support and be a part of North Devon Show, go to https://northdevonshow.com