The pivotal event in Northern Ireland's Agricultural
Calendar is looming again and this year promises once again
to be an extravaganza of displays, features and showmanship.
The Balmoral Show takes place at the RUAS Showgrounds, Belfast
from Wednesday May 14 to Friday May 15 (9.30 -8.00 pm daily).
The show which was cancelled in 2001 due to FMD saw an upturn
in attendance figures in 2002 and it is hoped that this renewal
of support will be repeated in 2003.
In addition to the cream of N. Ireland livestock and machinery
displays The Balmoral Show offers something for everyone-children's
entertainment, agricultural displays, breathtaking stunts, parades
of prize-winning animals and sheep shearing. Agriculture and
fashion, novelty and tradition are met in the marriage of fun
and celebration that encompasses the show.
This year, there will be the return of popular favourites such
as the rare breeds display and the vintage tractor/machinery
section. The agility of working animals will be put to the test
in the Working Gun Dog display, while equestrian lovers will
witness horses performing in International Show-jumping competitions,
as well in the working hunter and ladies' hunter side-saddle
classes.
Back by popular demand in 2003, audiences will be amazed by
the Royal Signals Motorcycle Display, The White Helmets - who
perform daredevil stunts on motorbikes and will wow spectators
with their fabulous stunts.
The schools trail makes a welcome return for the 3000+ primary
school children, who normally visit the Show. They are encouraged
to follow a defined trail of the show and to complete 'learning
booklets' which teach them about animals, foodstuffs and agricultural
procedures - it is particularly designed to teach children
from an urban background where their food originates and what
animals look like in the flesh! The trail coincides with the
Children's Art competition which will be run province-wide
prior to the show encouraging budding artists to disclose
"If animals could talk, what would they say?".
The fitness fanatics among us will be delighted by the Health
Beauty and fitness Zone and the amazing demonstrations will
hopefully inspire the more sluggish of us to get fit! The
gardening enthusiasts who attend are guaranteed a good show
at the horticultural section. Last year's Show saw the inaugural
Best Dressed competition and this year it returns with a plethora
of judges noted for their style and flair, who will no doubt,
spot the show stoppers among the crowds.
Aside from the attractions old and new, there will be the
usual trade stands, new agricultural equipment and machinery
and plenty to eat, drink, see and do on the stands of the
300+ exhibitors at the Showgrounds.
Chief Executive of the RUAS, Bill Yarr commented that "The
Balmoral Show enjoyed a huge resurgence in crowds last year-support
we greatly appreciated after the 2001 show was cancelled due
to FMD. The agricultural community remain strong supporters
of the Balmoral Show and of course we are delighted to welcome
our non-agricultural visitors. The numbers at last year's
show reflect an ongoing support for the work of the RUAS and
a strong respect for the tradition of the show. We look forward
to this year's show audience attending with renewed vigour".
With a crèche, 3 public car parks, free-entry for the
under twelves available, the 2003 Balmoral Show will be a
great day out for all the family, young and old alike. The
Balmoral Show - Enjoy it!
www.balmoralshow.co.uk
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Show Jumping
Waiting for Judgement
Sheepdog Agility
White Helmets |
