Border Union Show: Two-day celebration of farming gets underway in Kelso

Author: Ally McGilvrayPublished 25th Jul 2024
Last updated 25th Jul 2024

A two-day celebration of farming is getting underway in Kelso this morning (Friday).

Thousands of people are expected to flock to the Border Union Agricultural Society's annual Show at Springwood Park - with over 500 competitions for horses, livestock and industrial arts.

Society Secretary Dan Withall said: “We are delighted with the uplift in entries across the board in 2024 and look forward to exciting competition and visitors from across the UK.”

As well as the traditional sheep show and Young Farmers' tractor pull, the entertainment includes stunt bikes, jousting, and falconry displays.

Jedburgh Brass Band and dancers from the Graham School of Highland Dancing in Galashiels are among the performers on the music stage; while cookery demonstrations featuring the likes of Jedburgh butcher Ryan Briggs and St Boswells hotelier Billy Hamilton will showcase some of the best Borders produce in the Food Hall.

This year's event will also pay tribute to former Borders farmer turned racing legend Jim Clark, with a parade to mark 60 years since his victories in the Formula One World Championship, and Indy 500 series.

Vintage machinery, heavy horse turnouts and pony club games are included in the programme, along with a children's dog show (under 16s go free with a paying adult).

And Peter Douglas, from Ruletownhead, Hawick, will judge this year's Champion of Champions.

READ MORE: Opening stage of Tour of Britain revealed ahead of return to the Scottish Borders

Society Chairman, Tommy Clark, said: "The agricultural show has been at the heart of the Society for over 200 years and continues to evolve whilst retaining the founding principles of exhibition and competition.

"I sure you will find plenty to entertain you whilst meeting old friends or new ones."

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