THE Mid Devon Show Society is delighted to announce that Tony Sloley has been elected as the Show President for 2016 at its recent Annual General Meeting.

Tony has been a great supporter of the Society, since its beginning in 1991, taking on the posts of both treasurer for many years and also as chairman for a three year interlude.

At the AGM, the chairman, Peter Pugsley, gave a report on another extremely successful one-day show in July 2015 at the stunning new showground at Knightshayes/Chettiscombe.

He said that he hoped that the site would be available for many years to come.

Retiring President, Neil Parish MP, commented on: “how much he and his wife Sue had enjoyed a memorable year”.

Dame Sarah Mullally, the Bishop of Crediton, was welcomed as the new President Elect.

An update on the Scholarship award scheme, for those studying in agriculture or related industries, was given including a report from Edward Hosegood. More applications were encouraged.

Age UK – Mid Devon advised on their year as the show charity in 2015.

This was followed by a presentation by Claire Bellew, on behalf of the Devon Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs, as the nominated show charity for 2016, for their current major challenge of setting up the new DFYFC "hub" at Cheriton Bishop, a project for which there was still much to achieve before it could be established as their county base.

Dennis Knowles presented a very impressive picture show compilation, set to music, of the 2015 event and also had charge of Warren Radmore’s video taken from his drone flying around the showground.

A presentation was made to the current Show Organiser, Carolyn Branton, as she had resigned from the post after 20 years. A new Show Organiser would be appointed.

The Mid Devon Show date for 2016 is Saturday, July 23 at Knightshayes/Chettiscombe, and another great day is promised by the organising committee.

For more information please visit the show website: www. middevonshow.co.uk or contact the Show Office on 01884 820859.

Alan Quick