DESPITE some sharp showers more than 18,000 people enjoyed the annual Usk Show on Saturday.

Held on the second Saturday in September, every year since 1844, this year’s show saw a variety of demonstrations and activities, with both rings busy all day.

In the main ring crowds were wowed by two displays from motorcross stunt crew ‘Broke FMX,’ alongside the mounted games, the parade of hounds given by the Curre and Llangibby Hunt and as always the grand parade of livestock.

In the Countryside Ring there was also a full calendar of events, including David Seamark and his sheepdog display, Black Mountain Falconry, Rowan Working Horses, Usk Valley Gundogs, Amazing Alpacas and the Woolaston Bassets.

Visitors were also able to see exceptionally high quality stock from Monmouthshire farmers and, whilst avoiding the occasional shower, were able to marvel at and taste the exhibits within the marquees, they were also able to visit the huge number of very attractive trade stands, both agricultural and non-agricultural.

Gerry Hawkins, Usk Show’s chairman and chief gate steward, said: “This year the show’s new policy of free entry for children appeared to be extremely popular; so much so that when the hounds were in the main ring they had to change their demonstration because of the number of children – absolutely wonderful to see!

“I would like to thank the visitors and traders for attending and also particular thanks to the hundreds of volunteers who make this show such a success year after year, ensuring that Usk Agricultural Show is not only the largest but also the friendliest one day show in the country!”

Caroline Turner, the show’s agricultural secretary said: “Agricultural entries were of a very high standard once again. Young handlers were brilliant!  We had a wonderful exhibition of Holstein Friesians this year from all around the county.  Sheep entries were again of a very high standard.  Thanks to all the competitors for joining us for another fantastic Show.”

Faye Mear, show secretary, added: “Despite the forecast, visitors and competitors turned out in force to support Usk Show and the day was actually only dampened by a couple of heavy showers.  Thank you to all my team and committees – all volunteers - who work so hard to put on our fantastic show.”

Jo Drinkwater, acting horse secretary said: “Over 390 competitors entered pre show day.  The new start time of 9am was well received by exhibitors and volunteers alike! Our new Veteran Horse Society classes judged by Mrs G Edgar were well received and competitors are looking forward to the 2017 Supreme Finals. The new Retraining of Racehorse Amateur Series saw good numbers forward, as did the Side Saddle Association classes, these are always enjoyed by the crowds watching the main ring.

"The afternoon saw many champions and reserve champions come forward for the grand parade followed by the Best In Show, which was awarded to Mr Ian Jones’ Cwmhafod Delight the Welsh Cob Champion. A huge thanks to all volunteers who stewarded on the day, without whom the horse show would not go ahead.” 

For more photos see this week’s Beacon (13th September).