THE 2019 Launceston Agricultural Show was held at Kennards House last Thursday in sweltering conditions for the thousands who attended.

As the Post came in through the entrance gates, it was evident just how important this show still is to the local farming community and people from around the area in general. There truly was something for everyone to see and take part in, with food vans and trade stands held by local businesses and organisations, children’s games and entertainment from Magic Martin, tractor and agricultural machinery displays and much more.

The Post caught up with show secretary, Claire Fry, in the morning to see how she was getting on in what was her first year in the vital role. She said: “It’s really good, actually. I’m really pleased everyone has turned up and it’s looking great, there’s lots of people here!”

As ever the show saw the local community turn out in force with a whole variety of offerings to see.

Animal wise, there was the sheep, cows, horses, poultry and a dog show as well as a Launceston YFC tent, general trade stands, a food and drink marquee and the WI tent amongst others.

The young farmers tent was full of individual efforts as well as the team cubicle event which was themed ‘A day at the’ with the teams made up from the club — choosing whatever they liked to add it.

The Flower Tent saw record entries with over a third more than last year, which delighted the members greatly.

Sheep, cattle and horses were a spectacle to behold, with a number of familiar faces returning to compete with friends, as well as new additions to the showing area. The grand parade in the afternoon showcased the best of the animals as show-goers watched in amazement.

The poultry tent, which was in its second year at the show, also had a good day, with entries having increased on last year, and providing a huge range of birds. They also gave children the opportunity to take part, with two school entries, including St Catherine’s in Launceston, and a ‘handle a chick’ activity to allow children to be more familiar with the animals.

Also at the show this year was the popular ‘Creative Community’ marquee, offering show-goers the chance to see the wealth of talent and creativity of local people, as well as the food and drink tent — where a traditional pasty or two was had — and the theatre tent, where musical performances from local bands and choirs took place throughout the day.

Following the event, Claire Fry, said: “I didn’t know what to expect as it was a baptism of fire but I was thrilled with how it went.

“The attendance was fantastic as were the comments from traders, the general public, attendees.

“Everyone seemed to have a great day, myself included, I never even got that stressed.

“A huge amount of hard work from so many volunteers, it couldn’t go on without them. It was a great show and the attendance was up on last year on first indication.”

Claire admitted the near 30 degree temperatures helped.

She said: “The weather was fantastic, if the weather is nice the better crowds we get so hopefully next year we’ll have more of the same.”

Claire was in her first year in the role but wants to continue.

She explained: “As long as I’m wanted I’ll carry on. We hold a show post mortem at the end of August and then there’s the AGM in November. From there it’s all systems go ahead of next year.”

Chairman of the show, Robert Tucker, was equally as thrilled with the turnout and success of this year. He said: “It was an absolutely perfect day at Launceston Show! Perfect weather, warm and sunny, but not too hot and a gentle breeze kept conditions comfortable — although the president, Mike Bearns, shed his jacket well before lunch and his bowler hat was not helping to keep him cool!

“Recent good weather meant a lot of farm work had been caught up, meaning many farmers could make it to the show. Initial estimates suggest an increase in numbers through the gate from previous years.

“The dog show went ahead, despite concerns that it might be too hot for dogs. All the livestock and horses appeared to manage the weather conditions well. All reports from trade stands indicate a successful day had been had by all.

“Comments made on the day suggest visitors enjoy the largely agricultural base to our traditional show. Friends of ours came down from the West Midlands and particularly enjoyed the grand parade and gun dog display.

“The organisers can now take a break after what has been a hectic couple of weeks before we assess the show at the post-show meeting next month.”

The town council’s services team represented the local authority this year, with an appearance from the library, town hall, TIC and Lawrence House Museum teams to spread the word about the fantastic things on offer this summer in Launceston. Mayor and mayoress Dave and Carole Gordon attended the show and was delighted to see the success of the show committee’s efforts. Dave said: “Well, what a wonderful day it was at the show this year! Both Carole and I had a great day. The weather was wonderful and there was so much to see and do.

“The show president, Mr Mike Bearns, and committee deserved to have a wonderful day and I truly hope that it was for them. There is so much work involved in producing the 130th Launceston Agricultural Show, and I congratulate the whole show team for producing what must be one of the best one-day shows in our area, and a real showpiece event for Launceston.”