THE Devon County Show (May 21 to May 23) prides itself on its traditional attractions – magnificent livestock, wonderful food and drink, inspiring flower and garden displays, stalls offering a wealth of goods, and lots of wholesome entertainment in six rings.
A friendly, family atmosphere welcomes visitors to the simple pleasures of a really good day out where there is plenty to see and do and no expensive "extras".
"The Show taps into our nostalgia for the good old days," explained Show Secretary Ollie Allen.
"Our line up is drawn from so much that is first-class in our rural countryside and lets people enjoy time together through the more uncomplicated pleasures of life."
The main action centres on the cattle hall where the cream of the county's livestock rest in straw-lined stalls between competitive classes. Nearby there are lines of sheep, pigs, goats and alpacas, all under canvas.
On Friday and Saturday Girl Guides holding aloft breed signs accompany farmers and their prize-winning animals into the main ring for the ever-popular grand parade of livestock.
A really good day out also includes delicious and wholesome food.
Westcountry food and drink producers will help to banish the economic gloom by bringing the taste of the countryside to the table with their affordable and tempting produce.
Part of the enduring charm of the County Show is its line-up of non-stop entertainment in six rings. From performing dogs and flying motorbikes to dancing diggers, falconry on horseback, scurry driving, axe racing, vintage tractors and steam engines, there is a great deal of enjoyment to be had.
"The County Show is a day out like no other, and will put a smile on everyone's face and create memories for years to come," added Ollie Allen.
This year attractions include flying motorbikes, dancing diggers, falconry on horseback, Titan the robot, performing dogs, scurry driving, terrier racing, axe racing, vintage tractors, steam engines, sheep racing, heavy horses and lots more!
Exeter-based training charity, the St Loye's Foundation, has been named the official charity of the year by organisers of the 2009 Devon County Show.
St Loye's Foundation specialises in improving the life chances of people with disabilities or long term health issues by finding and delivering training with sustainable job outcomes.
The charity has huge plans for this major family event to show its valuable work continues, following relocation to city centre headquarters in Exeter.
The Devon County Show takes place at Westpoint, Exeter May 21 to 23 and St Loye's Foundation are offering free tickets to volunteers who can assist them at the Show. Contact them on 01392 286205 or email: [email protected]">[email protected] for further details.
For more information about the Devon County Show, or to purchase tickets, visit the website at: http://www.devoncountyshow.co.uk">www.devoncountyshow.co.uk .