Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show is back!
Organisers of the Gillingham and Shaftesbury show say they aim to reunite the rural community over the 2 day event which starts today
The Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show is back today as one of only a handful of events like it go ahead this year.
The show's been going for over 100 years, stopping only due to World Wars, Foot and Mouth Disease and lockdown last year.
This year, organisers have added an extra day, due to other agricultural shows across Dorset taking the decision to cancel this year.
They've also diversified with new heavy horse attractions and steam engines, while keeping the classics like a quadbike show.
Event Organiser James Cox told Greatest Hits Radio Dorset:
"We set out on a journey of doing a two day show this year back in January and of course there's been a lot of steps during that when we've lost hope.
"So actually the fact there's marquees here, there's people here, it feels very surreal it's actually happening."
As COVID measures have eased through the year sales for tickets and trader stalls have ramped up, particularly in the last few weeks.
The show lowered their trader rates to help encourage businesses and get them back on their feet after a year of disruption.
James added:
"When the 21st of June didn't happen, we all got a bit oh dear, what's going to happen?
"It's because of the visitors and the traders we kept going, so many traders were relieved the show was happening because they needed somewhere to trade from."
Covid-safe
A number of safety measures have been brought in to make sure that the event remains COVID-secure. That includes more distance between stalls, fewer marquees. The food hall marquee has been replaced with a large open area with lots of food stalls.
James said:
"We're trying to do our bit to keep everyone safe but also offer a great day out which celebrates, freedom, family, farming and the countryside."
You can find out more about the show from their website.