ONE brief, sharp shower was not going to dampen the spirits of showgoers at this year’s Camelford Show, who were glad they didn’t have to battle two foot of mud as they did in 2017.

Last year the show was plagued by heavy rain, thick mud and damp tents and was likened to Glastonbury Festival, where wellies and raincoats were must-have items.

This year however, the ground was firm and the showground easily accessible — no need to be towed out by a tractor.

It was a momentous occasion as the sun shone throughout most of the day on the new showground for 2018 at Trevilla, courtesy of Mr and Mrs Langley, with the show having previously been staged at Halwill Barton for the past 25 years.

As the public entered the pre-sanded entrance — no-one was taking any chances this year — they had the choice of going left or right, but either way they were in for a treat.

Right took intrepid visitors into the horse showing area, which provided ample opportunity to view some magnificent creatures strutting their stuff in pursuit of a rosette or two.

Back to the left took showgoers into the main show field where they could choose from the plethora of entertainment on offer.

In the main ring people were kept thoroughly amused by the Dartmoor Hill Pony Display Team, whose performances included some spectacular riding set to toe tapping music, the always popular gun dog display and for the little ones a children’s sporting event.

The cattle were on top form this year with a strong display of well bred animals, with the supreme champion being a beef heifer belonging to the Smith family of Jacobstow.

Equally there were strong numbers in the sheep pens. With a multitude of breeds competing head to head for the Supreme Champion’s gold and black sash, which was given to the best of the bunch, a Texel from Whitstone.

Another attraction that is growing in popularity is the poultry competition. A flurry of feathers could be seen and many children were excited to see a goose up close for possibly the first time along with all the other domestic and more exotic breeds — each one trying to catch the public’s attention with their raucous calls.

Away from the livestock rings the dog show, a family favourite at every show, was one of the most well supported this year and saw a group of very well behaved dogs, and puppies, sharing a ring in the hopes of ‘fetching’ themselves a trophy.

Also on offer was the ever-popular sheep shearing competition, with the cream of the crop battling it out for top spot.

The Young Farmers’ Club did not disappoint with a fantastic display of what it means to be a young farmer enticing possibly even more members to their already large group.

The Horticultural and Handicraft tent was overflowing with talent as more than 100 competitors brought along their homemade items in the hopes of catching the judge’s eye.

Nearby there was a circus skills, ‘zorbing’ and children’s fun house area, which kept the youngsters entertained for hours giving family members a chance to stop off and visit some of the trade stands, which were brimming with enthusiastic local businesses who were all vying for the ‘best trade stand’ cup.

In the end the accolade went to the Camelford branch of the Royal British Legion for its display, which included a tank named ‘Brown Willy’ — they also raised £121.44 on the day for branch funds, so a good day all round for the branch.

The Post caught up with the joint presidents for 2018 Mrs Sally Moore and Miss Madge Walkey early in the day as they were perusing the trade stands themselves.

Miss Walkey said: “We are honoured to be here today, and that is important for us to get across because it really is such an honour to be chosen as president.”

They were full of praise for the show’s new venue and assured the Post there would be no more rain — fingers crossed.

Miss Walkey said: “We have had our one shower for the day, there will be no more!”

“Hopefully,” added Mrs Moore.

They said entries were looking good and were impressed by the standard of trade stands.

Miss Walkey said: “I think the show is looking good, this section in particular has a lot of entries and the handicraft tent has been very well supported — it all looks set for a good show!

Mrs Moore added: “We still have a lot left to see and we are both really looking forward to the rest of our day.”

See this week’s Post for results and more show news.