Archive - Monday, 24 June 2002


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No livestock, but show will go on

Malton Agricultural Show makes a welcome return this week and organisers are hoping for a bumper day.

The show, which has been running annually for more than 100 years, was cancelled last year because of the foot and mouth epidemic.

Some restrictions are still in place and, as a result, no livestock will be on display, but there will still be other animals at the show, on Thursday, at Scampston Park.

"We will still have horses and dogs on display," said show secretary Jenny Bird.

"There will be lots of other things to interest people and there will also be children's entertainment.

"It was disappointing not to be able to have the livestock at the show. We do have the other exhibits which will, hopefully, attract the crowds."

The day will start at 8.30am with sheep dog trials, followed throughout the day by horse displays, non-affiliated showjumping and a parade by the Middleton Hunt.

Among other events there will be a dog agility competition, terrier racing, a fancy dress contest and a vintage tractor drive.

The show's committee has increased the size of the vintage machinery exhibition and other sections to compensate for the lack of sheep and cattle.

The trade stands have also gone up to more than 150 - far more than in previous years.

Ryedale MP John Greenway said he was delighted the show was back on track after last year's cancellation.

"This was a huge loss, not just to the social life of our community but also to the financial fortunes of so many local rural businesses," he said.

"I am sure the Malton Show will be even more keenly anticipated that usual.

"It's disappointing that continuing foot and mouth precautions will deny us the opportunity of seeing the best of some of our livestock.

"Nevertheless there is a lot to look forward to and let's hope for a fine day."

A free bus service will ferry visitors from Malton to Scampston Park throughout the day.

Starting from Old Malton it will call at Highfield Road (outside the Blue Ball pub), the bus station and the Cornucopia restaurant before going on to the showfield. There will also be free parking.

Updated: 15:01 Monday, June 24, 2002