Organisers of an agricultural show are gearing up for a return of the event later this month, as a further schedule of what's in store has been revealed.
Stokesley Show will take place on Saturday, September 21, which will be the 165th edition of the historic event, with organisers promising more than ever before.
This year, like each edition of the event, agriculture is at the heart of the Show, but there is something for everyone, entertainment, shopping, demonstrations and competitions taking place throughout the showground.
165th Stokesley Show: Organisers set for September 21 event
President of the 165th Show, John Fletcher, has pledged that the expected 20,000 visitors to the show will have a great time at the event, while also speaking about his own background in agriculture.
As a professional chartered engineer, Mr Fletcher specialised in marine engineering for half of his working career, before moving into construction engineering in the offshore and Iron and Steel industries.
Despite his engineering background, he spent his teenage years in farming in Little Ayton, and, for 20 years, has been a member of the Stokesley Agricultural Show Society.
He has also enjoyed time as a Great Ayton Parish Councillor, Hambleton District councillor and North Yorkshire County councillor.
He said: "Delivering the annual Show involves many individuals freely giving their time to provide a unique experience for over 20000 visitors to the showground on the day.
"There is a management committee as well as a Council with a Chairman both of which are -importantly, kept in order by the Show Secretary.
"Council members provide, with a passion for creativity and purpose, a level of expertise appropriate to their skills - Tractors, Horses, Cattle, Guinea pigs, Flowers and the list goes on.
"On show day the event depends on the dedication of Judges and many stewards involved across the showground."
The Stokesley Agricultural Society was formed in 1859 to run an agricultural show. The Stokesley Show is a real traditional. community event delivered by volunteers for the benefit of participants and the general public. I am very proud to be elected to be President of the 2024 Stokesley Show.
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He added: "There is an ethos of “continuous improvement.” which ensures a safe dynamic, vibrant eclectic event catering for both exhibitors, members and visitors to the showground.
"The management of Stokesley Show like many other similar events is faced with ever-increasing costs mainly met from Showground entrance charges, member subscriptions and other revenue streams. The prospect of bad weather on the day is almost palpable!
"Members of the Agricultural Society are welcomed and amongst other things benefit from having their own pavilion next to the main show ring.
"The main ring is the centrepiece of the showground. and on the day hosts showpiece attractions as well as show jumping and The Grand Parade of award-winning class champions."
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