Waterproofs and wellies for Sitithians Show (From Falmouth Packet)

Waterproofs and wellies for Sitithians Show

9:18am Wednesday 18th July 2012 in News

Cornwall's biggest one day agricultural Show went ahead at Stithians on Monday despite the wild, wet and windy weather.

While it was a case of waterproofs and wellies rather than flip flops and sunscreen, organisers made sure the event, now in its 178th year, was carried off with little disruption.
 

This summer has seen many agricultural shows cancelled due to the unseasonably wintery weather, but the only change at the show was that some livestock was sent home early, leading to the cancellation of the grand parade.

Organisers say that thousands of visitors still braved the elements to visit the stalls and see the see the competitions, including cattle, sheep and horticulture, as well as enjoy themselves at the fairground or listen to the live music.

Yvonne Toms, general secretary of the Stithians Show, said that the best part had been the strong turnout from exhibitors and traders, adding that the summer's bad weather could have been a boost as due to the raft of cancelled shows across the country many exhibitors were travelling from far afield.

Captain Mike Higham, honorary treasurer, said that visitor numbers were down on previous years and the committee could only put this down to the weather.

He believed the rain arrived “just at the wrong time,” putting off many people who were about to leave home to go to the show.
 

Despite this the event had still gone “very well” and he added: “We're not disappointed at all. We're very buoyant and delighted we were able to have a show when so many others had to cancel. All in all, a very successful day.”
 

Captain Higham said the showground itself had held up well, because as a dedicated showground it was sturdier and better maintained than many of the fields that are converted temporarily for shows.

There was also good feedback from the day from those who attended, and despite rain, people still enjoyed wandering around the show and having a good time.