Crowds of up to 20,000 people are expected to shake off the World Cup blues and bask in the sunshine at a bumper Tendring Show this weekend.
Now in its 103rd year, the family-friendly farming extravaganza is returning to the Tendring Showground in Lawford on Saturday, with a host of new activities on offer.
Our guide below gives you everything you need to know about this year’s show.
Attractions and displays
New for 2018, guests can try their hand at a new extreme balancing sport, explore the new theme arena and meet the animals from Hasty’s Adventure Farm.
Past favourites – such as main ring displays, the dog agility competition and open air shopping – are also making a triumphant return.
This year’s show will feature a bigger and better food pavilion and street food area, plus sheep racing and cycling displays.
Crowds are also invited to meet Jemma, Laura and their ‘Whale of a Time’ boat before they attempt a record-breaking row across the Atlantic for charity later this year.
Returning show entertainment also includes Titan the Robot and Richard Savory’s popular Sheep Show. Guinea pigs, rabbits, sheep and heavy horses are among the animals at the show.
Visitors can also meet everything from bees to bats at the countryside arena.
Date, time and venue
The Tendring Showground is at Lawford House Park, Bromley Road, Lawford, near Manningtree in Essex.
Postcode for sat navs is CO11 2ND.
Gates open to the general public at 8am, and showing classes begin in the main ring at the same time.
Tradestands will be open from 9.30am until 6pm, when gates to the showground close.
History of the show
The Tendring Hundred Show was first held in 1899 – since then, it has become a flagship event in the Essex calendar.
The 2018 President is Jack Jiggins, whose family are long-time supporters of the show.
According to organisers, the event is a unique opportunity to bring the rural and urban populations of north Essex and the surrounding area together.
Event spokesman Tom Glover added: “The Tendring Show is a charity and we rely on the support of the local community as well as the time and unceasing efforts of a huge team of volunteers.
“It’s a lot of hard work for one day, but at the same time we think this is what makes the event so special.”
Parking information and tickets
It is free to park your car at the show – and a forward disabled parking area is available for Blue Badge holders.
A map of the showground is available here.
Visit the official Tendring Show website to buy tickets and for further information.
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