THIS year’s show played host to a great mix of visitors and competitors, and also played host to a number of council members.

Helping out on the ‘Launceston Love Loyalty Card’ stand was Cornwall Councillor Gemma Massey (Lib Dem). She said: “The show has been really good, there has been a steady flow of people but we could do with a little bit of sunshine.

“There seems to be a lot of locals this year and there is a nice mix of people, not just farmers but those from the town as well, and a range of ages — it’s been great.”

The Post spoke to Conservative MP for North Cornwall Scott Mann as he was lining up ready to sample some of the food on offer at the show. When asked how he was enjoying the show, he said: “This is my third year coming to the show. It is always nice to be back in Cornwall, especially after the last six weeks, which have been a bit hectic.

“It is great to see so many friendly faces and local businesses at the show and now I am standing in line for a hog roast so it is great!”

Launceston resident and Cornwall Councillor Neil Burden attended the show with his wife Ruth. He spoke to the Post about why he thinks the show is so important to the local community, and said: “I think it is a lovely community event and is a great opportunity to see old friends and to make new ones.

“We see less and less community events and many of the old traditions have gone, but this show is keeping it alive.

“There were some outstanding entries in the marquee this year and that alone was worth coming to see as there was not just one exceptional entry, they were all good.”

Cornwall Councillor for Launceston North and North Petherwin, Adam Paynter (Lib Dem), attended the show, not as a councillor, but as a family man. When asked how he and his family had enjoyed the show he said: “It is always a fantastic family affair. My children really enjoyed it, as there was plenty for them to do all day.

“They enjoyed the interactive stalls and games like the golf practice net and Magic Martin, and the Sheep Sheering was fantastic.

“It was also great to see family and friends that you may not always get to see. Overall I have to say it was a great family day out for us.”

Also on display at this year’s show was a memorial signpost built on the show field, dedicated to the late Roger Pook who worked tirelessly for the Launceston show over many years.

Overall, it was a great community event that brought together friends, young and old, and really showed off what Launceston and the surrounding areas have to offer. Everyone looks forward to next year’s show.