The Ashwater Agricultural Show is celebrating its 70th show this year.

It is being held at The Barton, Ashwater, EX21 5EQ on Saturday, August 19, by kind permission of Mr Bryan Lewens.

The show originated because two farmers, Mr Harry Spry and Mr Sam Brock, who were at the village auction had an argument as to who had the best bullock, so decided to have a show to settle the argument.

The show started in the Market Field next to the village pub in 1948. A pig class was held for one year only as Mr J Fishleigh’s pigs got sunburnt.

The show is hugely supported by the villagers who all pull together to make sure it can take place each year by helping out in one way or another. The only times the show hasn’t been able to take place has been due to Foot and Mouth and COVID.

The show will be officially opened at 1pm by this year’s presidents, Mrs Tina Drowne and Mr Roger Mitchell.

There will be show jumping, a gymkhana and other horse and pony events throughout the day from 9am.

The livestock judging will take place in the early afternoon. Events taking place in the Main Ring during the afternoon will be a vintage tractor parade, shire horses, Parade of South Tetcott and Lamerton Hunt Hounds.

Other attractions include horticulture tent, small animals tent, sheep shearing, a craft tent, trade stands, a climbing wall, bouncy castle, fun family dog show, food wagons and more.

In the evening there is to be an after show party with a bar, food, band and a disco. So if you are looking for a fun family day out with something for all the family please come along.

Any enquiries phone the show secretary Fiona Allen on 07733 262700.