Country shows are securing Shropshire's rural future

Country shows are helping to secure the future of farming in Shropshire for generations to come, it has been claimed.

These major local events, which include competitions for cattle, sheep and horses and trade stands for country-based businesses, are helping to bring rural communities together, according to Prue Dakin of Upper Onny Country Show which is held near Bishop's Castle.

She said they encourage youngsters to get involved with farming and the rural way of life at an early age.

The claims have been backed up by Rob Alderson, chairman of Shropshire NFU, who said one-day shows continued to draw crowds and boost businesses.

Upper Onny Show was held in Norbury for the first time in 2010 to fill a void opened by the now-defunct Bishop's Castle Show, and brought together rural businesses, farmers and children from the primary school.

This year's event will be held on July 8 and will include a number of demonstrations such as stone walling, pottery, lace making and crafts.

In recent years the West Mid Show has been successfully relaunched as the Shropshire County Show, while Burwarton and Minsterley shows continue to attract crowds every year.

Mr Alderson said: "The one-day shows in Newport, Oswestry, Burwarton and Minsterley are continuing to do very well and always seem to attract good crowds unless it is a particularly awful day with the weather.

"Country shows are a good day out for families and are certainly a popular thing to be doing at the moment. They can encourage people to find out more about businesses such as farm shops in any given area and it is something we are very much in favour of."

Mrs Dakin said Upper Onny show was every two years and it had helped to strengthen local businesses and links with local people.

She said: "The show keeps generations together and shows young people there is lots going on locally.

"It is about making sure we pass down traditions and keep it for generations to come."

See also:

• Shropshire County Show hailed a success

• Shropshire County Show – More pictures