Stunning agricultural displays captivate visitors at South of England Show
15th June 2023
This year’s South of England Show welcomed thousands of visitors from across the region, who enjoyed three days of first-class agricultural and equestrian competitions and displays, a great line-up of trade stands and some excellent arena events, accompanied by stunning summer weather.
Organised by the South of England Agricultural Society, the event took place on 9th-11th June at Ardingly Showground in West Sussex, with this year marking the show’s 55th anniversary.
Highlights from the event included grand livestock parades and machinery displays, international showjumping and an incredible performance by the Bolddog Lings FMX motocross stunt team.
The show featured over 1000 livestock entries, out of which an impressive 500 were sheep, new classes for Kune Kune pigs and Beltex sheep.
A notable addition to this year’s show was the Vintage Agricultural Machinery Ring presented by the South Eastern Vintage Agricultural Club, which proved a huge hit with tractor and steam parades and harvesting and baling demonstrations.
Also new was the Story of Wool, with sheep farmers demonstrating shearing and talking to the public about their role and wool production. Spinners and weavers were also on hand, demonstrating their age-old skills.
The show hosted plenty more equestrian competitions, including the Inter Hunt Relay, equine showing classes, the Equestrian Games UK, the Shetland Pony Grand National, and Scurry Driving competitions.
Captivating live music performances and the beloved Sheep Show attracted enthusiastic crowds. The show also boasted an impressive array of country craft displays and trade stands, offering activities such as stick-making, hedge-laying, trug-making, and a Grape & Grain Walk, which allowed visitors to sample and purchase some of the finest beverages from local vineyards and breweries in the region.
The show also hosted a Discover the Countryside area, which included activities such as forestry and fly casting, as well as the Bees & Honey marquee with live bee demonstrations and observation hides.
Ensuring the younger generation had an unforgettable experience, the show featured various free activities which educated them about food production and its origins, and they could also find out more information or join the Young Farmers Club.
Corrie Ince, show director for the South of England Agricultural Society, said: “The show was a great success. It truly connected our visitors with rural industries and provided a fantastic opportunity for them to engage with the hardworking farmers, landowners, and talented craftspeople who are located across the south east.”
He added: “The success of the South of England Show would not have been possible without the invaluable contribution of our dedicated volunteers and staff, who work tirelessly to bring this event to life year after year.
“After a few hard years for everyone, it really felt like the show was back to its very best.ˮ
The Society’s next show is the Autumn Show & International Horse Trials, which will be held on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September 2023. For more information or to book tickets visit www.seas.org.uk.
