RECORDS were being broken left, right and centre at this year’s Holsworthy & Stratton Agricultural Show held at Kilatree Cross on Thursday, August 23.

People in their hundreds rushed to the main ring to take part in the Guinness World Record welly wanging attempt. We wait with bated breath to hear the results from Guinness World Records whether the attempt was successful.

In the WI tent they had to share one cup between seven women, a feat that has never been accomplished before, as all seven ladies had obtained top marks for their individual entries. Records were also broken in the magnificently decadent flower tent with the highest number of entries the committee has ever received and setting its own base record the new ‘Hidden Talents’ tent got off to a flying start with 210 entries — one to beat next year!

Show secretary Rosie Ireland said: “We have had a record-breaking day. We had more people here than ever before, the trade stands were absolutely packed, our stock entries were very high, but best of all we are going home tonight as record breakers!”

She added: “I would like to thank everyone who comes and supports this show every year.”

The weather held firm on the day with only a spot of rain at mid-day pushing its way through the clouds. The heavy rainfall the night before however made for some muddy conditions but as one exhibitor said, ‘it isn’t Holsworthy Show without a bit of mud’.

The sheep pens had a great range of breeds on show from Texels to Border Leicesters, Charollais to Scotch Blackfaces, and the top spot for overall champion was hotly contested, finally being won by P H and G A Cornelius.

Nearby showgoers could watch the mighty cattle parade around the ring in the hopes of nabbing themselves a rosette or two. The young handlers in this section were particularly impressive with a large turnout for the final round in all categories of the Mole Valley Farmer Young Handler’s competition. The cattle in the ring weren’t the only representatives of the species however — who spotted Daisy the cow on their way in to the show?

There was a lot on offer in the horse showing rings with displays of power, strength and elegance. The driving classes were of great interest to the public as they watched the powerful animals glide around the arena whilst pulling their handlers on beautiful carriages.

Around the showground the trade exhibits provided a wealth of local businesses and organisations the opportunity to show people what they do as well as compete for the coveted ‘Best Trade Stand’ prize for agricultural and non agricultural stands. The pygmy goats were well represented and a display of llamas proved popular with the audience members as well as the chance pet the hounds.

In the entertainment ring falcons flew high and ferrets ran low as they raced visiting children. Magic Martin proved popular with his first visit to the show as children could be heard singing along to his performance across the showground.

Overall the day was filled with fun and laughter as everyone spent a glorious day exploring the showground and viewing the wealth of talent the people of Devon and beyond have to offer.