Penistone show keeps up with modern times

The show, with its roots in farming, showed how the industry has moved on over the years with machinery from the past on display so people could see what farmers had to use to work their land and care for their livestock.

With around 16,000 visitors, Penistone Showground was packed with the livestock judging in the main arena pulling in the crowds.

The horticulture classes also proved popular with exhibitors keen to show off their home-grown produce.

But there were also fairground rides, stalls, mountain bike stunt displays and a climbing wall to entertain the crowds and ‘ducking stool’ game run by the Young Farmers had spectators laughing.

Organiser Liz Walker said a display by a stunt carriage team was one of the highlights of the event for many people.

“The stunt carriage team was amazing - the ponies would do absolutely anything at the command of the rider, including jumping though hoops of fire,” she added.

“There were lots of people watching that and it was impossible not to be impressed.”

Liz said she was delighted with the turnout to the event.

“We haven’t done a final count but we think there must have been around 16,000 people there - it was crammed, there was a massive attendance,” she added.

“Our biggest ever crowd was 21,000 when we had a blisteringly hot day one year and the weather was kind to us again on Saturday so I am sure that helped with the numbers.”

Former Young Farmer Liz Plumstead, aged 26, of Staincross, and her pig farmer husband took their newborn baby to the event.

“I have always attended the show and for me the show is not so much about what there is to do but it is a great social occasion,” she said.

“It is a great place to catch up with people you have not seen for a while and there is always something to do.

“My husband and I enjoy looking at the livestock, for example, but we also enjoy catching up with people - there is always a great atmosphere there.”

Gordon Firth, from Gawber, Barnsley, said: “It was an excellent day - there was obviously an awful lot of organising involved and I want to thank everyone behind the scenes responsible for the show year after year.

“There was lots for children but it was also good for older age groups to be able to wander around and look at all the exhibitions, such as the floral and baking entries in the various competitions.

“I also enjoyed watching the showjumping this year - there really was something for everyone.”