OVER the years, Ashwater Show has had more than a fair share of cancellations due to inclement weather or animal diseases, which explains why 71 years after the first show was held in 1940, this year was the diamond jubilee, writes Ivan Buxton, our Ashwater correspondent.

Fittingly, a parade of vintage tractors starring one vehicle for approximately every three years of the show's existence, brought back many memories as they circled the main arena following arrival of the joint Presidents Rodney Brock and Ruth Carroll to conduct the formal opening.

Rodney and Ruth belong to Ashwater with family connections and a record of serving the community over the years and it was an unexpected pleasure to see them both in their finery on a day that typically started wet and improved as the shadows lengthened.

Ashwater has changed a little since 1940, but essentially remains an agricultural parish with those living on and embracing the land seeking to come together at least once a year to celebrate by showing the results of their labours or simply enjoying the company of old and new residents.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.