Dorset County Show 2018 welcomes more than 55,000 visitors

Organised and run by Dorchester Agricultural Society, the annual two day event, was a roaring success.

For the first time, the main ring entertainment consisted of camel racing which was provided by Joseph’s Amazing Camels. Popular in Middle Eastern culture, the camels were a highlight attraction that drew in the crowds and were popular with those who hadn’t seen entertainment of this kind in Dorchester before.

Throughout the rest of the weekend visitors saw scurry racing and a Grand Parade of livestock, showcasing the finest cattle, sheep, goats and pigs in the south west.
Competitive classes also took place for more than 20 different breeds of cattle, over 30 different breeds of sheep, goats and pigs, as well as in homecraft, horticulture and sheep shearing.

Tractor Ted paid took part in fun interactive demonstrations and show-goers were provided with child-friendly information on the important role farming plays in our lives and where our food comes from.

Will Hyde, show secretary, said, “It has been yet another successful year for Dorset County Show and we are proud to be seen as the county’s leading agricultural show. The show wouldn’t be possible without our team of 300 volunteers who generously give up their time to make sure the event runs smoothly each year, and we are really thankful for this.

“The support we received this year has blown us away, as not only did we see our usual high numbers through the gates, but we also had a record number of entries for our competitive classes. It has been fantastic to see our loyal visitors who return year-on-year, coming together with new faces to celebrate agriculture and promote its importance in the county.

“Every year our show activities programme offers more and something different for show-goers, and we look forward to welcoming people back to Dorchester Showground at Cokers Frome in 2019 and beyond, for many years to come.”

Prior to the show, Dorchester Agricultural Society hosted an Auction of Promises which has raised more than £15,000 for the Dorset County Hospital Charity Cancer Appeal.
Dorset County Show 2019 will take place on 7 and 8 September.