IT’S all systems go for this year’s Penistone Show which is being flagged up as ‘a day of discovery’.
The 147th show is lined up for Saturday September 14 at the town’s showfield.
And a number of innovations have been brought in - thanks to increased use of technology.
Secretary Rebecca Barnett said: “We are looking forward to a fantastic show - which we hope will be even better than ever. We have quite a lot of new things lined up.”
Last year, around 10,000 people flocked to the showground - around double the 2017 attendance which was hit by shocking weather.
Promising ‘something for everyone’, the show will feature showjumping, shire horses, livestock and dog shows, more than 200 trade stands, children’s crafts, vintage vehicles, handicrafts, cookery displays, photography, live music, real ale and food. There will also a young farmers’ area and a grand parade to round off the day.
This year, visitors will experience ‘a day of discovery’.
They will be able to follow the journey of growth throughout the showfield, from seeing chicks hatch or flour being made into pizza, to the development in farming technology or how raw materials such as wool, become a knitted garment.
This is Penistone’s biggest and longest-standing event and the whole day is still run by volunteers.
“This year we have worked hard to introduce a range of new ideas”, said Rebecca.
“Our new discovery hubs include everything from watching a Punch and Judy or finding out about ferrets through to making corn dollies, learning how to knit or planting seeds.
“At the same time parents can enjoy refreshments while listening to live music.”
Examples of activities this year include milking demonstrations, birds of prey, learning about spinning and felt-making, sampling food and seeing how horseshoes are made and applied. A new class in the cattle section is the Penistone’s People’s Choice, where two people will choose the best of each breed.
Rebecca said: “Everybody who attends the show is given a free guide, which will contain a new discovery trail, for children to take part in and once they’ve completed the answers, they get a badge.”
Children will also be able to take part in biscuit-decorating in the homecraft marquee.
For this year, organisers are delighted to be able to offer new online entry and application forms for each section. There is also a new website with lots of new features, updated maps and contact information.
The show runs from 9am to 6pm and admission is £9 adults/£2.50 children/£20 family ticket.
