THOUSANDS of people enjoyed a true celebration of Mid Devon life at the 29th Mid Devon Show, which took place at Knightshayes, Tiverton, on Saturday, July 23.

There was an eclectic mix of breathtaking entertainment, food, shopping, music, horticulture and farm life.

Almost 20,000 people enjoyed the biggest one-day agricultural show in the South West.

The weather was ideal, a few small showers meaning harvesting could not take place and allowing everyone from the farming community to attend.

There were good entries in the livestock classes as well as many of the other competitions including YFC classes, dog show, flower and garden marquee, classic cars, motorbikes and vehicles of special interest.

Crediton area exhibitors fared well, some achieving some very good results.

Trade stands enjoyed very busy times with others such as the music and dance pavilion programme a firm favourite with the crowds.

The public loved watching the cattle, sheep and other livestock classes being judged and also watching the firm favourite, the grand parade of livestock in the main ring.

Other favourites included the food hall, magpie market marquee, children’s art competition, rural crafts, vintage tractors, modern tractor demonstrations, Mid Devon Show Churches Tent and countryside arena.

The main ring entertainment included an impressive programme with the headline act being Jamie Squibb’s Stunt Show.

It also included a vintage tractor parade, Dartmoor Hill ponies display, the Diamond Twirlers Majorettes, Young Farmers’ competitions, Pony Club game, parade of hounds, and Heavy Horse grand parade.

The organisers thanked the almost 250 volunteers who help make the Show a success and also thanked the Show sponsors.

The show charity, Devon Air Ambulance, was selected by the Show President Terry Hamlin.

Show chairman Angus Cottey thanked all the landowners who allow the land to be used for the Show and parking.

He said: “We are the single biggest event in Mid Devon across the year and provide all-round entertainment, food and fun for all the family.

“We have yet again been encouraged by the support we have received from the traders and our suppliers who continue to support us, the exhibitors who have a strong desire to show their livestock and produce, and also the public and the local councils who have been so helpful, particularly to the safety advisory group of Mid Devon District Council who have been so supportive in advising us in the lead up to this year’s Show.”

The winner of the “Crediton Courier” Rose Bowl, awarded to the Best Devon, was won by Michael and Danielle Cowell from Ashreigney.

The “Crediton Courier” this year sponsored the Vintage Tractors section.

The show committee thanked all the volunteers and public who attended to make it a hugely successful event.

Next year’s show will take place on July 22.