AN AGRICULTURAL event with livestock competitions, international show jumping and cattle parades has returned, promising to be bigger and better than ever.
The three-day programme for The South of England Show in Ardingly promises to go back to the event’s roots with more than 100 things to see and do, while also featuring new appearances including displays from the Army and a garden design competition.
The annual event at the South of England Showground promises the chance for every generation to see, meet and learn from farmers, landowners, rural businesses and local artisan producers to connect with the countryside.
Cattle parades and showjumping are returning to the main ring for this year’s event, along with heavy horse hound displays, scurry driving and inter-hunt relay competitions.
The outer rings will also see a return to a full programme of cattle, sheep, goat and pig judging, as well as equine showing - including ridden hunters, moorland ponies, side saddle and more.
Visitors looking to experience the traditional countryside activities and crafts can also enjoy hedge laying and trug making, as well as country sports with gundogs, hounds, and birds of prey.
Corrie Ince, show director for the South of England Agricultural Society, said: “We were very fortunate that we were able to hold The South of England Show in 2021, albeit on a much smaller scale.
“With restrictions lifted, we are delighted to be coming back with a bang and offering an action-packed programme.
“A day at the show offers a unique opportunity to see and sample all the wonderful things our countryside and region have to offer.”
The event, taking place from today until Sunday, also features a food hall and village hosting local and independent producers, live music, farm machinery through the ages, axe throwing, archery and even a medieval re-enactment zone.
The show also has a children’s trail to take little ones through the show and experience a range of activities, including a sheep show and learning about where food comes from and how it is produced.
Tickets for the event are available on the South of England Agricultural Society’s website.
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