Show gave it the full Monty!

Organisers of the last month’s Montgomery Show have said that it attracted huge crowds from across the country for a “friendly and welcoming day”.

Despite a wet build-up to show day, marquees, the show ring, exhibits and displays were all in place and looking their best for the official opening of the show by President, Susie Blower.

The show races on the previous evening had drawn a large field despite the pouring rain, when a sizeable group of under 15s galloped away across Lymore Park, braving the inquisitive attention of flocks of sheep before returning to well-earned acclaim.

An hour later, and still in the rain, the adult's race, organised by Maldwyn Harriers, saw 93 runners complete the challenging multi-terrain course. Bruce Fanshawe was first home in 27 minutes 56 seconds minutes, with Madison Griffiths the first lady home in 33 minutes and one second.

Early next day, a slight shower failed to dampen spirits and the Show opened at midday with a stirring speech from Susie, as Show President.

The Carnival processed majestically around the showground, with the floats and fancy dress thrilling spectators. At 1pm the marquee opened and attendees were free to admire the many exhibits including expertly grown and lovingly tended vegetables, exquisite flower arrangements, gallery standard arts and crafts, calendar standard photographs and of course “Bake Off” quality cakes, tart, jams, marmalades and honeys.

Newtown Silver Band kept everyone musically entertained, whilst the main events in the ring ensured maximum audience attention as the talented Hawkeye Falconry impressed and delighted in equal measure, the birds astonishing performances reaffirming the timeless trust existing between master and falcon.

Sports Day Events, where no quarter was given and none expected, delighted spectators. Closely following the displays of sportsmanship, a huge collection of vintage cars added a touch of glamour and splendid nostalgia, whilst the fiercely contended Dog Show was as engaging as ever, again with large numbers of aspiring Crufts entrants.

Outside the main ring, a wonderfully elegant performance from the Sally Gartell Academy of Dance was much admired, whilst David Oakley once again proved hugely popular with the younger children with his magic show.

Never one to be outdone, farmer David Jones drew a boisterous crowd as he studiously judged the now famous 'potato-in-a-bucket' competition, before the full and eventful day drew to a close with the hugely popular tug-of-war to tumultuous applause.

By Sunday, the main marquee had been transformed into a banqueting tent fit for a feast where 286 elegantly dressed diners were lavishly fed and watered – a hugely successful ending to a truly wonderful Montgomery Show weekend.

Show Chairman John Humphreys said: “We’ve had a lovely weekend and would like to thank all the people of Montgomery and surrounding area for their support at all the show events.”

PICTURES by G17 Photography

Top picture from left: Carnival Queen, Samara Taylor (last year’s carnival queen), Sue Blower (Show President 2023) and Roxie Francis-Borie (Carnival Queen 2023).