Join us for our 125th Show!

According to committee records, this year is the 125^th agricultural show which will be held on Saturday 6^th July. Held in the delightful setting of the Old Park at Hutton-in the-Forest, this traditional country show has earned a reputation for being an excellent day out in the countryside for all the family.

This year the main ring attraction will be the Fell Pony Society’s official Display Team who will perform a musical ride and a ‘then and now’ pageant showcasing the history and versatility of the local heritage breed – the Fell pony.  Costumed riders will have fun showing off their ponies while the commentary covers the history of ponies in Cumbria from pack ponies, farming and Border Reivers up to present day with Pony Club Games, endurance rides, drag hunts, carriage driving and all-round family fun.

In addition, we will be entertained by the Ullswater Community College Cheer Leaders squad who will perform a couple of dance routines; plus there will be the traditional fast and furious scurry racing and the calmer Concours d’Elegance equestrian riders who were extremely popular last year. Another ring attraction will be the fun Terrier Racing spectacles which always cause much hilarity and laughter.   We are also pleased to be hosting the 15 stone World championship in the Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling which this year has a total prize pot of £750.

Commenting on our 125^th event, Show Director John Slee comments “We are delighted to have reached this milestone and looking back through the archives we have found some fascinating material which illustrates the ups and downs of rural life during the last 140 years as a number of shows were cancelled in that time.” 

And it’s not just our 125^th year but also the Penrith Town Band. This local brass band has performed at the Skelton Show many times throughout the years and their tunes always add to the showground atmosphere, so it’s fitting that we share the same anniversary!

Chairman Andrew Bargh, is keen to reiterate the traditional agricultural aspects which are at the heart of Skelton show: “as well as cattle and sheep (including the new Dutch Texel Classes and Coloured Ryelands), there is a marquee full of classes for children plus cooking, painting, floral arts, vegetables and walking sticks. Other attractions include the ever popular dog show, pony sports and over 150 trade stands.  The Vintage Vehicle Section continues to expand and is a sight to see (and hear) when all the vehicles enter the main ring in file for the grand parade”.

Our ever popular horse section continues to grow with something for everyone in our equestrian section – from Shetlands to Heavy Horses and at all levels to allow every competitor to participate and enjoy their show.  For advice and enquiries regarding the extensive equestrian section, please contact Kelly (details on the website) and remember all class bookings can now be made direct online via our new (safe and secure) website www.skeltonshow.com. 

The extensive Taste@Skelton Food Festival and the expanded Gifts and Crafts tents provide a wide range of local produce to taste and purchase plus the Fur and Feathers tent and family Dog Show all ensure there is plenty to do and see for all the family. A wide variety of food and bar facilities all add to the enjoyment of the day.

Following Beverley Bargh’s retirement, having held the position for 12 years, the newly appointed Treasurer Charlotte Pollock adds “We have maintained our admission prices this year and are confident the show will once again provide excellent value and entertainment for all age groups – a great day out in the countryside”.

Admission charges for 2019 (including parking) are Adults £12.50, OAP’s and Youths 11-21 £7.50 and kids under 11 free.  But remember advanced discounted tickets are currently available on the website; by purchasing tickets during May will save £2 per person, reducing to a £1 off in June so book now to take advantage of this worthwhile saving. 

Schedules are now available from the secretary Mrs Antonia Reid on 01768 484122 or are downloadable within the relevant section of our website and competitors may book their entries in online for the horse entry classes, trade stand, food hall and gift and craft entry applications.

Ends | 18 May 2019