First Female Chairman Elected Ahead of 128th Skelton Show

Skelton Show, with a longstanding tradition dating back to 1880, has evolved from its humble beginnings in Skelton village to become one of Cumbria’s premier agricultural showcases. Held on the first Saturday of July against the picturesque backdrop of the Old Park at Hutton-in-the-Forrest, the event has grown in stature and significance over the years.

Operated wholly by a dedicated committee of volunteers, Skelton Show still has agriculture and the interests of farmers very much at heart.

A landmark moment occurred during the recent Annual General Meeting held at the Toppin Memorial Hall in Skelton. Amidst a full house of members, the committee heralded a historic shift in leadership as it prepares for its 128^th show. Nina Oxley was elected as the new Chairperson, marking the first time in the show’s history that a woman has undertaken this role.   With an agricultural background, and a career in marketing, Nina continues to share her wealth of experience having been an active committee member for a number of years.

The outgoing Chairman, Colin Atkinson, reflected on his tenure, navigating through challenges such as the pandemic-induced cancellations of the 2020 and 2021 shows, as well as weather-related setbacks. Despite these hurdles, the 2023 edition was praised as one of the best in recent memory, a testament to the resilience and dedication of the committee and volunteers.

Expressing gratitude for the support received, Colin extended his congratulations to Nina and reaffirmed his commitment to the show’s continued success. Nina, in turn, thanked the committee and members for their confidence in her leadership and pledged to deliver an exceptional Skelton Show experience in the upcoming year.

Derek Wilson, became Vice Chair as well as continuing to support the Livestock section.  Derek has considerable show experience having helped to set up/take down sheep pens and cattle lines at Cartmel show for many years and lending a hand at the Westmorland show as a Cattle Steward.

In another notable development, after 22 years of service, Antonia Reid announced her resignation as Secretary. While stepping down from her role, Antonia assured her availability to assist the committee as needed, underlining her dedication to the show’s success.  The committee would like to publicly thank Antonia for her hard work and service to Skelton Show – 22 years is a truly remarkable time!   The search for a new secretary now begins, and interested individuals are invited to reach out for this vital position. 

As anticipation builds for the forthcoming Skelton Show on Saturday, July 6th, 2024, at the Old Park in Hutton in the Forest, the organisers invite prospective trade, food festival, gift and craft exhibitors to seize the opportunity to participate.  Applications for trade stands are now being accepted, details of which can be found on the show’s official website: www.skeltonshow.com/trade-exhibitors.

The next meeting to discuss the 2024 show in more detail will be held at Toppin Memorial Hall, Skelton on Wednesday 6^th March at 7.30pm.  All are welcome.