Northumberland agricultural show with 10,000 annual visitors encourages entries

A Northumberland countryside show which dates back more than 180 years has encouraged competitors to get their entries in ahead of the big day at the end of August.

The Bellingham Show was founded by two rival farmers - coincidentally both called George Dixon - in 1842, each hoping to prove that they had the finest cow. To resolve the argument, the two cows were paraded in the field behind what was then the Railway Hotel, to be judged by a third party.

It's not known which of the Georges was victorious, but their competitive spirit proved infectious, and the one-off dispute led to the Bellingham Show - which now attracts 10,000 visitors to the Northumberland village. The show aims to celebrate the best of the region's agriculture and heritage, including local crafts, music, and culture.

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Although cattle are no longer shown at Bellingham, there is an equine section with more than 50 classes, including fancy dress. There is also a large sheep show, dog shows and an enormous industrial section where home-baking, honey and preserves, WI exhibits, art and photography, floral displays and children's competitions compete for red rosettes and first prize cards.

Entertainment in the main arena includes the Big Pete Monster Truck Show and the high speed Inter Farm Relay Competition. More gentler attractions include the Magnetic North traditional music stage, and piping competitions judged by Kathryn Tickell.

Sarah Davidson, Bellingham Show secretary, reminded visitors that the show comes a week later than the usual bank holiday weekend date. She said: "As this is the last weekend before the children go back to school, we hope many local people will be back from their holidays and will look forward to a last fun day together before work and school begin in September.

"The Show has something for everyone, bringing together rural communities with those from towns and cities. We aim to educate, entertain and create connections to food, farming and the countryside, and provide a great day for all of our visitors."

The Bellingham Show takes place on Saturday, August 31. Tickets are being sold online at a discounted price until Friday, August 30, with a family ticket at £20, adults £8 and children £4.

Entries for all sections of the Bellingham Show close on August 12, and organisers have encouraged competitors to get their applications in either online or by post.