HORSES will be back for this year’s Bowes Show, organisers have confirmed.
Equine events were missing when the show returned post-Covid last September, not for any pandemic-related reasons but because there wasn’t a secretary available for the section.
Liz Redfearn, the show’s general secretary, said that while classes would be back, there would not be as many horses as in previous years.
“We are hoping to have classes for the Dales, Fells, family, donkeys and, fingers crossed, veterans,” she said.
“We have so much happening this year there just isn’t the space to have all the horse classes we offer in a ‘normal’ year, but it is wonderful to have some of the equine classes.”
This year’s Bowes Show is building up to be one of the most extensive in its history.
As previously reported, Bowes will host the Shorthorn Society Show to celebrate the breed’s 200th anniversary.
The Northern Sheepdog Society, which staged a trial at the show for the first time last year, is returning.
“There are also plenty of things going on in the main ring,” added Ms Redfearn.
There will also be plenty of fun to be had.
“The class for the tallest thistle has now been opened to adults as well as children and given that most farmers spend a great deal of time trying to get rid of thistles on their land, this could prove an interesting class,” she added.
“Our sunflower class is highly contested and there are several adults as well as children wanting to win this, which is rather special this year as all the entry money is going to the Ukraine appeal.
“Many people have donated far more than the entry fee which is wonderful,” said Ms Redfearn.
In the run-up to the show, which takes place on Saturday, September 10, there will be a scarecrow competition for the first time on the theme of nursery rhymes and fairy tales.
The contest is open to all residents of Bowes and the surrounding area and the winner will be announced at the show.
The show schedule is currently being finalised and will be available to download from www.bowesshow.org.uk.
