IT will be a welcome return for the Okehampton Show on Thursday, August 12 after a year off due to the pandemic.

The Show is held in the foothills of Dartmoor on the Stoney Park Showfield and the excitement for Show day is building with an ever-increasing speed of expectation.

Alison Heywood, Show Secretary, says the show really is a fun day out for all the family, combining the traditions of agriculture with entertainment for all.

She explained: "The traditional showing classes for Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Pigs and Horses predominantly take place during the morning and are celebrated with the Grand Parade of Champion Livestock and Horses in the Main ring during the afternoon. A spectacle that should really not be missed.

"Around the Showground there is entertainment all day long, with the entertainment ring showcasing Falconry, Gun Dog Display, Dangerous Steve, Victor Pitts Sheep Dog Display and the not to be forgotten Fun Family Dog Show which you can enter on the day from 12.15pm at the entertainment ring. Ferret racing is just next door.

"As you walk around the showground you will come across everything from Rainbow Gecko (bubbles), rural demonstrations and Morris Dancing teams."

Alison added that the Music stage has a full programme of entertainment including the debut of the shows "New song", written especially for the event.

She continued: "The Vintage section will be parading in the Main Ring as well as their static display of over 150 vintage tractors and vehicles.

"Featured in the main ring during the afternoon will be four packs of hounds as well as a display of the Dartmoor Hill Ponies and a fast and furious competition of the Pony Club Mounted Display Teams."

Other attractions include the Open Section, WI, YFC and Bee Keepers marquees, a Craft Marquee and Devon Food Hall of local produce.

Show President this year is John Shields of North Tawton, who will be attending with his wife Jaqueline.

Mr Shields said he was "honoured" to be president.

He continued: "From my early days, as a small boy, I have great memories of attending the show at the former Showfield site (now Okehampton Rugby Club).

"Subsequently I have always looked forward to the show, particularly with my farming interests and I have had a trade stand at the show for many years to promote my timber buildings business."

He added that the Show has something for everyone.

Alison added thanks to the volunteer helpers and committee which organise the event.

She concluded: "Do come and visit the show, have a wonderful day out, I am sure you will not be disappointed."