2 minute read
North Devon Show 2022
Show organisers apologise as visitors turn back in traffic chaos
Photos pages 18-22
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View from above showing the car park fields almost full - Chris Wileman took this photo from 1,200 feet, flying his Eurostar G-NICC light aircraft
Due to the Covid pandemic, it was the first North Devon Show since 2019 and it’s estimated a record 25,000 people packed into the showground at Umberleigh Barton Farm on August 3rd. But for some, the crowds meant sitting in queues for up to three hours on gridlocked roads.
Many, including exhibitors, competitors and ticket holders, simply gave up, turned around and went home disappointed. The show’s organisers said sorry to all those affected, “We would like to apologise to everyone who was stuck in traffic. It shouldn’t take that long to get in and out of our showground.”
“It’s something we have already started to address for next year and we will be consulting with the local authority and others to find ways to help with the traffic flow.”
Continued on pages 19 - 22
Molton Monthly magazine sponsored the classic cars and bikes section, with publisher Peter Robinson displaying his 1957 Maicoletta scooter
The morning drizzle gave way to blue skies, as the crowds flocked in to enjoy the entertainment
Daredevil display on BMX bikes
Echoing the feelings of many unable to get in was our farming correspondent Roger Hill, who displays ‘Tupper the Tractor’.
“It was a shame we had to turn around after a fraught journey from Stoodleigh. To be able see the showground three miles up the valley, but with all roads gridlocked, made it even more frustrating,” he said.
Despite the travel problems, the North Devon Show was hailed as a great success by the organisers, once again providing a showcase for rural life in our area.
“A huge thank you goes out to the people of North Devon for supporting us. The Society would like to further apologise to all those affected by the traffic problems this year, but we look forward to welcoming you again in 2023,” said a show spokesman.
Action from the youth showjumping competition - more photos on the following page
Young sheep handlers go through judging (above) and Exmoor Blonde cattle on show (below)
All the fun of the fair at the 2022 North Devon Show - photos pages 18-22 by Peter Robinson
Dog show judging (above) and Red Ruby Devon cattle in the ring (below)
