Centenary year for Gargrave Show

The agricultural society is celebrating its centenary this year and wants the show to go down in history as one of the best. And the initial omens are good.

The centenary celebrations kick off on Thursday with 500 people attending a sellout dance in a marquee on the showfield in front of Eshton Hall.

Turning to the show itself, there will be classes for sheep and cattle for the first time since foot and mouth swept through the Dales.

"We are hoping to get back on track, although I suspect the numbers may be down as people are still trying to build up the quality of their stock after foot and mouth," said show chairman Cathie Cromarty.

In another effort to win back the farmers, Arla Foods has agreed to sponsor a three-show dairy championship - the shows being Gargrave, Malham and Kilnsey.

There are also three new trophies on offer.

The family of the late Susan Graveston, a regular exhibitor who died last year, have donated a trophy, which will be awarded for the best baking exhibit.

Rider Alison Horton has given a trophy for the best hunter foal - she has been showing her mare for many years but this is expected to be her final year. She wanted to leave behind a lasting legacy.

The third new cup has been donated by Horton-in-Ribblesdale man Bernard Capstick and will be awarded to the best Dalesbred sheep.

This year's showfield attractions include a higher and higher showjumping competition, the Lampkin Motorbike Display Team and the Swale Valley Jazz Band.

Once again, the popular fell races will take place, with all age groups catered for. The first race is the under nines at noon.

There are cash prizes on offer, and Ribblesdale Motors has offered to pay out £50 if the senior race record is broken. It is currently held by Robert Hope, of Pudsey, who completed the multi-terrain course in a time of 21.21 in 1999.

As in previous years, there will be free transport to the showfield from the Summerseat in the centre of Gargrave.