Black Isle Show president reveals goal ahead of big day
ALL roads lead to the Black Isle next week for members of the north farming community and thousands of revellers anticipating one of the biggest show events of the year.
At the heart of preparations for the Black Isle Show is Tom Henderson of Udale Farm who is anticipating one of the best events ever.
With a preview night on Wednesday, July 31 ahead of the main show on Thursday, August 1, excitement is building at the Mannsfield showground at Muir of Ord.
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Mr Henderson, president of the Black Isle Farmers’ Society, said: “The planning is a year-long thing. We have a large, good strong committee and everyone has their own roles and takes charge of their own part of the show. It is a real team effort.
“I would say that everything is planned to have one of the best Black Isle Shows ever. The entries are great, the trade stands are full and we have great main ring entertainment, including stuntman Steve Colley.”
The return of the Heavy Horses Turnout championship class for the first time in a generation is a personal highlight. It’s always a great spectacle.
“Seeing these great horses, so vital to the development of farming, next to the huge tractors we now have is fascinating.”
Mr Henderson follows in the footsteps of his father, John, in taking on the role. He said: “I have attended it all my life. Being president is a great honour.”
He said that as well as a great meeting place for the sector, it’s an excellent opportunity to show members of the public where their food comes from.
He suggests visitors take time to look at parts of the show they may not have seen before. He said: “I would urge people to go and look at something different, whether that be the sheep or cattle judging. There’s a lot to see.”
He said prudent investment down the years in the showground at Muir of Ord is paying off: “It’s a showground for all weathers - although of course we always hope for the best!”
Show secretary Fiona Mackintosh says the August 1 date of the event - the earliest it can be - has thrown a few people.
One of the busiest days of the year may, ironically, be August 2 when the phones start ringing asking about the following year’s event and seeking to book spaces.
The 260-plus trade stands this year include everything from food and craft , clothing and charity stalls to plant hire and machinery.
It’s rumoured that one trade stand once cleared a £1m worth of sales in a single day with sometimes the most unassuming looking customers proving to be big spenders.
Free parking and the appearance of a Ferris wheel overlooking much of the showground are big selling points this year.
And one new event looks set to turn heads and delight the hearts of young children - the Hobby Horse located in the Discovery Zone. That sees contestants trying to secure clear rounds on the classic childhood horse toy.
Ms Mackintosh said: “It has really taken off elsewhere and should be great to see.”
Therapy pets in the same zone will also be a great draw with dogs, alpacas and Highland cattle involved.
The fairground ensures a family friendly feel.
There’s a strong livestock entry with over 70 entries in the Highland cattle section. Flower show entries can be taken up until 1.45pm on Wednesday next week.
And in good news for people wanting to travel without cars, Highland Council plans running shuttle buses all day between the train station and village square of Muir of Ord to the showground, making public transport an option.
