Taking place on Thursday 24th August, the Melplash Show is recognised as one of the area’s most popular summer attractions. It brings together the very best of West Dorset to celebrate farming, food and the countryside and provides an entertaining and fun day out for all the family.

For those that are not familiar with farming it provides a rare and exciting opportunity to find out what is involved. 

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There is an impressive selection of competition classes where local farmers can show off their finest livestock, traditional and rare breeds, and  young handler competitions to give the next generation an opportunity to showcase themselves and their stock.

As well as competing against each other, the owners and breeders love having the opportunity to introduce visitors to their animals and to talk about what they do.

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Horse and pony classes have their own dedicated show rings, and heavy horses and show jumping are in the main ring. Other traditional farming crafts and skills will be on show including thatching, hedgelaying, wood turning and beekeeping.

The horticultural, home produce and handicraft competition tents are always  a major attraction with the best in flowers, vegetables, handicrafts, wines and home baking, a chance to marvel at not just the size of the vegetables and beautiful floral displays but also at the exceptional talents there are in the area. 

Dorset Echo: Moto Stunts InternationalMoto Stunts International (Image: Melplash Agricultural Society)

In the Bradford’s Main ring there is entertainment throughout the day including the sensational motorcycle stunt team – Moto Stunts International – who’s all-action death-defying stunts are sure to thrill, and Bob Hogg and his sheep dogs who will be entertaining the crowd with his hilarious sheep and geese herding demonstrations. The Grand Parade of prize-winning animals and the presentations of the top trophies will be the highlight of the day!

Dorset Echo: Bob Hogg and his sheep dogsBob Hogg and his sheep dogs (Image: Melplash Agricultural Society)

For the younger generation there is masses of free fun to be had. The popular Discover Farming area will be  packed with free hands-on farm to plate activities along with the latest technology in farming.

There is a full programme of activities to watch in the popular Kitson & Trotman countryside arena, everything from ferret racing,  gun dogs, falconry on horseback and terrier racing, where you can even take part with your own dog!   

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With over four hundred trade stands offering a wide range of products and services, the large Porter Dodson Food Hall, the Moores Biscuits cookery theatre, a fantastic selection of street food, and Palmers Brewery’s popular Melplash Inn. It really is a perfect day out, offering something different for everyone.  

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To keep up to date with what is happening please visit www.melplashshow.co.uk  or follow - on social media - Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

Admission is FREE for children 16 and under. 

Adult advance tickets are available to buy online at the early bird price of £18 each (£20 on the day) www.melplashshow.co.uk/tickets/