Livestock, equine and poultry shows must constantly evolve to keep pace with change in the industry – and this year’s Royal Bath & West Show promises to be the most cutting-edge yet.
Schedules for the show – which will be held from 27-30 May – have just been released, and feature a number of new and exciting classes that are sure to attract entries from across the country. “Farmers, horse exhibitors and poultry breeders are constantly moving with the times, and it’s vital that show classes develop to reflect that,” says Show Manager Alan Lyons. “The Bath & West Show has become an important national event in its own right, as well as a valuable qualifier for championships like the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), and these new classes only serve to strengthen that position.”
In the livestock section, new hybrid dairy classes reflect the growing importance of crossbreds in the industry, says Mr Lyons. “Enabling farmers to display the benefits of hybrid cows in the show ring will lead to improved breed selection for maximum productivity back on the farm.”
The Show will also host the South Devon Herd Book Society’s National Show, attracting pedigree breeders from around the UK and further afield. And following last year’s success, the interbreed dairy championship will again be held on Saturday, benefiting exhibitors and visitors alike.
Equine entries reached nearly 2000 last year, and a series of new classes could see that threshold breached in May, says Mr Lyons. These include part-bred Arab and Welsh in-hand classes, ridden Welsh, Arab, Connemara, New Forest and Dartmoor classes, and in-hand racehorse classes. “With some excellent prize money, the show jumping competitions will continue to attract some of the best riders in the country. And this year we have the qualifier for Shire horse of the year at HOYS, so visitors will be treated to a display of 80-90 of these magnificent heavy horses.”
Following significant growth in the poultry classes in recent years, the Royal Bath & West Show will this year host the Poultry Club Summer National. “We are expecting a number of breed clubs to hold their national shows with us as well, attracting some of the best exhibitors in the country,” says Mr Lyons. “As one of the biggest summer poultry shows, breeders, exhibitors and the general public will be spoilt for choice; and the competition is sure to be intense.”
- The Royal Bath & West Show will be held from 27-30 May. Entry schedules for the livestock, equine, poultry and other classes are now available online at www.bathandwest.com or by calling 01749 822200.
About the Royal Bath & West of England Society
The Society was founded in 1777 in Bath by a group of philanthropists led by Edmund Rack. We are a registered charity organisation (Registered Charity Number 1039397). The Society was formed with the aims of encouraging agriculture, arts, manufacture and commerce.
Our charitable activities provide:
- Agriculture, veterinary, educational and art scholarships
- Technical events and Seminars
- Practical farming advice and conferences
- Countryside Education
- Diversification advice for farmers
- Education for children
- A market place for countryside products
As the Society approaches its 238th year it continues to deliver a wonderful mix of established traditional exhibits through to the latest energy technology and contemporary entertainment.
The entertainment and features around the 242-acre site ensure enjoyment for every member of the family and include attractions that are spectacular to watch, educational, inspirational, “hands on” or just plain fun.