Hailing a new generation of Great British festival, this year’s Royal Bath & West Show promises more farming, more food and drink and more fun – the same show, but even better.
Schedules for the show – which will be held from 1-4 June – have just been released and for the first time ever livestock classes will be held on every day of the show, with the Grand Parade now being held on Saturday as well as Thursday and Friday. “This offers an opportunity for more visitors to be treated to a display of all the winners and for exhibitors to show off their prize winning animals,” says Head of Shows Alan Lyons.
The show has introduced more classes for exhibitors to enter, including commercial beef steers on the hoof, providing more chances to win as well as offering more prize money.
This year, the younger generation will be given a time to shine with Wednesday now dedicated to young exhibitors. A new team competition will be introduced, with three participants competing for each team; one preparing the show animal, one stock judging and one showing. “This team event will give the up and coming generation the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and help introduce them to friendly yet competitive world of livestock showing,” says Mr Lyons.
The show will also host the Focus Texel Show, drawing in top breeders from across the country. “This will produce some really strong classes, with fierce competition and likely some tough decisions for the judges,” adds Mr Lyons.
Exhibitors staying at the show will now have more evening entertainment with live music and a plethora of new street food stands.
“Showing livestock is a very sociable occasion, as well as a valuable way to show off your best bloodlines to the public and potential purchasers,” says Mr Lyons. “Our bigger and better show format gives every exhibitor the opportunity to make the most of their time here – we are really looking forward to celebrating the best of British agriculture.”
