Display signals shift

Agricultural machinery has an increased presence at the show following its successful return 12 months ago. More than 50 tractors were on display at the event today, a shift back to its agricultural roots in recent years.

It follows the interest of the dancing JCBs in the main arena last year. Among those exhibiting were Pontesbury-based Rea Valley Tractors, who made their own return to the show last year following a four-year absence.

Their display of tractors through the ages was expected to be one of the more popular at today's show.

The company has expanded its display after the interest generated last year.

Chris Willner, a partner in the firm, said that success showed how keen people were to see the agricultural side of the West Mid Show emphasised.

Increased

He said: "We have a number of John Deere and JCB tractors on display. The show wanted to get back to agriculture, which is good.

"This is the second year we have been back. Last year we were here but in a small way but we have an increased presence this year. It went well last year and it is more about the agricultural machinery this year.

"We have a display of John Deere tractors starting from the 1930s right through to the current day. The only decade we are missing is the 1950s. They are all in really good condition and I think the 1930s one will attract a lot of attention.

"We have also got some JCBs which we have only been dealing in since January 1. I think there should be a lot of interest in the machinery this year.

"I had been coming here since 1972 until we stopped four years ago. Last year they were keen to get us back and it went well.

Mr Willner said Rea Valley Tractors also had a stall selling merchandise this year which he hoped would be successful.

He added: "We have a load of merchandise such as caps, clothes, toys. It is the first time we have done this."

Dylan Owen, of Church Stoke firm RUW Pugh, said it was his company's first year back after a break of more than five years.

He said: "They seem to be getting back to more of a country show than in previous years rather than just a family day out."