A great range of attractions and fine weather combined to make the 2007 Uffington White Horse Show another huge success. It will be some weeks before the final financial result is known. However, it is already clear that the Show, now in its 36th year, will have raised well over £100,000 for local charities and community organisations in just the last three years, and much more in its long history. Once again nigh on 15,000 people attended the Show over this Bank Holiday weekend, making for a fantastic festive occasion.
Without doubt the highlight of this year’s Show was Christian Moullec, the world famous conservationist, who has trained geese and cranes to fly in formation behind his microlight. Show visitors were privileged to see Christian and his geese make only their fourth appearance in the UK.
A very different form of entertainment was provided by Aisle O’var Backswording Clubbe, who dressed up in costume and demonstrated the ancient sport of Backswording, a martial art akin to fencing which was popular when the White Horse was ‘scoured’ in Victorian times.
Making their Uffington debut, the BT Melodians Steel Band provided a terrific carnival atmosphere as visitors relaxed with a pint in or outside the beer tent. The X-treme Trials motorbike display team performed impossible stunts that had spectators packed several deep all round the arena.
Loads of other attractions from apiary to Tae Kwon Do and archery to Tractor Driving plus dozens of craft stalls all contributed to a great day for people of all ages.
Although Uffington only has a population of about seven hundred and the Show is run entirely by volunteers, the very highest professional standards are always maintained to ensure a safe and enjoyable Show that people return to year after year – and bring their friends. By offering excellent value for money, a friendly atmosphere and a fun day out that appeals to both children and pensioners, the Uffington Show has carved itself a niche position midway between village fetes and major county shows.
Planning has already started for next year’s Show, which will again take place over August Bank Holiday, 24 & 25 August 2008 – mark the date now! Further details, together with final results for this year, will be published on the Show website: www.whitehorseshow.co.uk
