Dalston Show brings out record-breaking crowds

Elton Wrong and Zoobidoo - the zoo that comes to you - and a healthy display of Holsteins had wall-to-wall visitors captivated throughout a day of fun and frivolity.

The show has always been a favourite with visitors and competitors alike, but it really outdid itself.

“We really have had a record show,” said a delighted show secretary, Julia Richardson.

“You couldn’t have bought this weather,” said chairman, Neil Brough. "We have had the odd decent day this summer, and one of those days just happened to fall on our show day. How lucky are we,” said Mr Brough.

Taking place on the village showfield, Dalston Show saw well over 4,000 people turn out, a popular fixture in the county’s show season calendar.

Car parks overflowed with visitors who streamed onto a showfield crammed with people selling everything from pots and pans, garden furniture and country clothing to those promoting their services or wares.

The show’s numerous trade tents were over the moon, with most reporting a roaring trade. One happy stand surrounded by visitors young and old was the bee keeping stand. Their demonstrations using live bees were an instant draw.

Secretary, Gillian Potts, said it was a packed show with something for everyone. “Even the weather came good, with sun out.”

She added: “All our volunteers who give up so much time need a big pat on the back as these shows take some planning and organising. The Food Hall and Cumberland Demonstrations were hugely popular and the new Shop @the Show was overflowing and the Craft Marquee over double the size.”

Just then excited barking from the main ring alerted the crowd to another show favourite - youngsters with their faithful companions. “Wouldn’t like to be in the judge’s shoes with this one,” said the announcer. And similarly with the Fancy Dress competition judged by the President, Mr and Mrs Stephen Brough.

A full list of show winners can be found in this week's Cumberland News.