Show of force
Thursday, 29 July 2010
Pictured at Antrim Show on Saturday were Matthew Long, Billy Apsley, Tom McBride and the two Sam Agnews.
FROM cattle to cupcakes and beagles to bouncy castles, there was something for everyone at this year's Antrim Show.
Shane's Castle played host to the event for the second year running and, as the gates opened for the fun-filled day, spectators and competitors flooded into the heart of the huge estate.
In a scene reminiscent of Noah's Ark, trailers were unloaded with animals of all shapes and sizes to compete for prizes and pride in classes for cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses and ponies.
The air was buzzing with all the sounds of the farmyard as stallholders set up their wares. Visitors were spoilt for choice with a huge selection of merchandise including jewellery, homeware and outdoor clothing.
Top-of-the range machinery was also on display for the boys (big and small) and the gourmet food tent catered for all palates with Indian, Mexican, Italian and, of course, local produce available.
The judging quickly got under way and, before long, competitors were proudly displaying their ribbons. The standard of young handlers was particularly high and, as they fed and groomed their animals in preparation for their turn in the ring, their enthusiasm was clear.
Competition was also tight in the home industries tent. Stunning floral displays, a variety of crafts and children's artwork all came under the judges' scrutiny and a mouth-watering selection of preserves and baked goods had to pass the all-important taste test.
As the sun broke through in the late afternoon, it was a golden end to a proper family day out.
With the final piglet safely loaded away and the last scone polished off, all thoughts were on next year's event which promises to be even bigger and better.
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