After what feels like forever, we are finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
We are learning to live with COVID-19 and the long-awaited return of agricultural and country shows is finally here.
Last week, I attended Rydal Show.
It was my first time visiting that show and my first show in more than two years, and what a buzz there was from the offset.
It is set in one of the most beautiful locations I think I’ve ever seen a show, surrounded by the rugged Lake District fells, with endless historic dry stone walls wrapping their arms around those in attendance.
It truly is breathtaking.
Whilst the heavenly views captured my attention straight away, something else captured my heart.
It was the atmosphere – an atmosphere that you’ll truly only ever find at these type of events.
It’s the overwhelming sense of pride, care and passion all bundled up into one, and I couldn’t help myself just to take a moment to pause and really soak it all in.
Farmers’ rosy faces beaming as they explain each individual animal, its breeding and highlighting their amazing attributes.
Shepherds waiting with bated breath to see whether their dog’s outrun will secure them a spot up with the best.
Hunt servants parading around the ring with such pride, knowing the responsibility of maintaining one of the country’s oldest traditions sits upon their shoulders.
Gamekeepers proudly demonstrating the hours of training and work put into their gun dogs.
The laughter as friends and families are reunited after a long two years.
And how can I forget the smiles and cheer from the hundreds or thousands of spectators as they truly appreciate and value the workmanship, the time, the care that of these country people commit to every single day?
Our country shows are an incredibly special part of our industry, steeped in tradition and culture.
COVID-19 has highlighted that more than anything.
Agricultural shows are a chance to see friends and families that we otherwise wouldn’t cross paths with.
They are a chance to share a coffee or a pint and talk about your high and lows.
They are a chance to swap notes on farming or other work practices.
But most importantly, they are a reminder that you are never alone even when you live out in the country, and it’s break away from the hard graft to just forget and enjoy yourself with like-minded people.
