Weather set fair for tomorrow’s North Devon Show

The North Devon Show is all set to go ahead at Umberleigh Showground tomorrow (Wednesday, August 7) with no interference from the weather gods.

The latest forecast is suggesting almost perfect show conditions, with temperatures in the high teens – pleasant for humans and animals – and little or no rain.

The region’s premier agricultural show will as ever feature a full range of animal and livestock competitions, a dog show, main ring activities and displays, entertainment, vintage vehicles, fairground rides and a live music stage, plus of course many trade stands and stalls.

It is a far cry from last year when it rained heavily in the run up to show day and on the day itself, creating unmanageable conditions, cancelled events and car park chaos with many vehicles having to be towed out of the mud by tractors.

Many of the volunteers helping at the car park, including Young Farmers, were praised for their cool heads and cheerful attitudes though.

Show secretary Theresa Soanes recalled: “It was heart-breaking really. It had been raining for days on end and hit us again during the morning of the show.

“There was so much water on the ground that even our well matted routes and pathways became clogged in mud. It was just one of those things that you can do nothing about and sadly we couldn’t go on with the day.

“I wanted to give a shout out to the wonderful support we’ve received from the North Devon public and indeed beyond.

“People understood that last year was one-off freak weather event, but despite the atrocious conditions there was a sense of goodwill and camaraderie on the day. People were helping to tow stranded vehicles and all sorts. I remember one person saying that there was a real ‘Dunkirk spirit’.

“That’s one thing to thank people for, but the other is the amazing support we’ve had from the public once it was announced we had made massive losses.

“There were fundraising activities throughout the year, which together with the support of our sponsors meant the show could carry on. People were telling us the North Devon Show is their favourite summer day out and were asking what they could do to help us. We are ever so grateful for that.”

 In addition to all the usual activities, this year’s Show features horse trainer and falconer Jonathan Marshall with his Free Spirits Show and the return of the ever-popular Giant Tortoises.

Also this year, BBC Radio Devon will be broadcasting live from the Showground.

Theresa added: “It’s going to be a very special Show day. On the practical side we have a better traffic management system in place now, ample parking and an excellent bus service, so come along and enjoy a great day out.”

Buy tickets and find out more including transport timetables and events listings at https://northdevonshow.com. Tickets are also on the gate on the day.