Fantastic year as Shropshire County Showground numbers soar
This year has been one of the most successful for our County Showground, writes Shropshire County Show chairman Neale Sadler.
It has hosted musical festivals including the nationally renowned Shrewsbury Folk Festival, the Shropshire County Show, one of the oldest agricultural shows in the land with record numbers of cattle and sheep entries, the inaugural County Horse Show, Festival of Transport, bonfire and fireworks extravaganza, regular Sunday car boots and a variety of other miscellaneous and exciting events.
Officials estimate in the region of 350,000 people visited the venue during the course of 2012 and anticipate that numbers will be even higher in 2013.
Set in 55 acres of beautiful parkland along the banks of the River Severn to the north of the county town, the County Showground, better known by many as the Agricultural Showground, has brought in hordes of much-needed tourists to the county town. Visitors to the showground can, with a steady stride, find themselves in the centre of Shrewsbury in less than 15 minutes.
Plans are already advanced for the 2013 Shropshire County Show which will take place on Saturday, May 25. Next year's show will be even bigger and better with bookings for trade stands already breaking previous records.
A full programme of entertainment is being made ready with negotiations and preparations well advanced to attract a new children's play area, farmers' market and food hall, and a programme of main ring entertainment specially geared up for all members of the family.
With the help, support and encouragement of many local business people, including the town council and Shropshire Council, the renewed drive and commitment of a number of recently-appointed trustees and the goodwill of the people of the county, there is a good deal more optimism about our future than there was just a very short time ago.
We are currently recruiting new members of our society. Family membership costs just £39 a year and allows for entry to the County Show and Horse Show, both held in May and the bonfire and fireworks night in November.
Membership allows access to the members' area with all the added perks that provides. You will also know that as a member you are supporting this wonderful asset and helping to secure its future for years to come.
For more information please visit our website www.shropshirecountyshow.com
