Despite heavy rain and terrible weather conditions the day before, the Holsworthy and Stratton Show, held on Thursday, August 27 at Killatree Cross, was an all-round and well deserved success.

With the bad weather thankfully moving away from the South West by Thursday, the 113th Holsworthy Show was well underway with people turning out from across all areas, in order to experience and receive the full ambience of the one-day show.

Martyn Mill, Show Chairman was very satisfied with how the show progressed, he said: "Despite the previous day's weather, the conditions are fine and I am very pleased. We have had excellent entries on the livestock and horses, with especially the heavy horses being up on previous years." Along with the livestock and equine entries Martyn commented that: "The trade stands all sold out four weeks ago and the day was expected and has been very busy."

Martyn also explained how unfortunate it was that the late Des Shadrick could not take his place as Show President. He said: "The Show Committee decided not to have another President for the show, instead we have had Presidents from previous years who have presented the cups and awards."

Despite what many had said about how there were some "last minute preparations" the night before, on the day it came together well.

Vice-Chairman John Vanstone was very positive with how the day had gone overall. "Today has been very successful, the crowds of people have been great and we have even had to turn away trade stands. There have been a high capacity of exhibitors that have entered the show and the car park was full."

John also mentioned the hard work that was put in the night before (August 26), in order to make the showground safe for the members of the public and said: "There were difficult conditions to work with last night as we had to remove grass and lay down wood chips, however, it was all made possible with an excellent committee who all pulled together.

"I am looking forward to next year which is going to be bigger and better."

Alison Heywood, the Show Secretary was delighted how well the day went. "It has been a fantastic day, one of the smoothest running shows that we have had, with good entries across the board. There has been a really good atmosphere amongst people, the weather has held up and the showground has been really busy."

For full report and more colour pictures see this week's 'Holsworthy Post'.