With just over a month to go until a popular agricultural show, its organisers have been recognised by the King.
The Melplash Agricultural Society Show is just around the corner, taking place on Thursday August 22, at the West Bay show grounds in Bridport.
One of the south west’s premier agricultural exhibitions, the show is packed full of exhibits including livestock, horses, homecrafts and horticulture.
It also boast over 400 trade stands selling everything from locally produced food to tractors.
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Philip Hardwill receiving the award from from the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell (Image: Melplash Agricultural Society)
Lucy Hart, show secretary, said: "Farming and agriculture really are at the heart of our show and visitors will be able to watch judging of the wonderful animals.
"We will be building on the success of our Discover Farming marquee – a must visit for all families who are interested in learning more about food production and farming.
"There will be a number of activities and interactive demonstrations where children of all ages can get hands on experience of a variety of ‘Farm to Food’ activities.
"Our show is a great day to meet with friends, enjoy the countryside and learn more about west Dorset."
PICTURES: Melplash Agricultural Show 2023
Crowds at the Melplash Agricultural Show at Bridport which is busy with visitors. 24th August 2023. (Image: Graham Hunt Photography)
Now with just weeks to go until the big day, the society has received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, a certificate signed by the King and a domed glass crystal.
This was presented to society chairman, Philip Hardwill, by the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell, at a recent pre-Melplash Show meeting.
Mr Hardwill said: “It was an honour to receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service on behalf of the hundreds of volunteers, committee members and stewards, who work throughout the year to make the Melplash Agricultural Society the success it is.
"The annual Melplash Show, the competitions and the Discover Farming programme work towards the attainment of the goals of the society 'to improve the standards of agriculture in West Dorset'; 'to educate and enthuse young people about the importance of agriculture to the local economy and to the environment' and finally 'to inspire young people to study agriculturally related subjects and to take up careers in agriculture and rural crafts'.
"Every one of our volunteers over the last 177 years has worked tirelessly for the show and the society and this award is a reward for each and every one of them."
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