Stotfold set for 13th annual Country Show

The event takes place on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May from 10.30am to 5.30pm and will once again provide a great day out for all the family, whatever their ages and whatever their interests.

Highlights of the weekend include a Civil War battle re-enactment with musketry and artillery firing, plus a chance for audiences to learn about life in the military.

There will also be a living history camp showing the everyday life of soldiers and their families in the 17th century.

John Saunders’ internationally-renowned steam collection will provide vivid evocations of the noise and smells of the great age of steam-driven machines, including the vintage steam fair rides and the popular tug-of-war.

On Sunday, visitors can delight in seeing the Vintage Horse-drawn Fire Pump and Crew which has been restored.

Modern attractions include the explosive display by the Stannage Stunt Team, including the Amazing Flaming High Dive, aerobatic displays by specialist aircraft and Captain Neville’s Flying Circus, which will feature a range of rare machines.

Visitors who want their own flying experience can book a flight in a helicopter, for a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area.

Kevin Balderstone, leader of the Major Events Team, who organise the Steam Fair, said: “We are thrilled that on Sunday at 10:50am (weather permitting) there will be a flypast by a historic Lancaster bomber from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.”

One rural attraction is the Rockwood Dog Display Team who amaze audiences by their agility in intricate routines.

Besides this, there are displays by all the local schools, a free kids’ zone with bouncy castles, inflatable slides and a gladiator joust, a wide range of food, craft and community stalls, plus a beer tent throughout the event.

Music will feature strongly with a variety of bands playing in the beer tent and a free evening on Saturday with performances by The Soul Man and Sugasoul.

The Mill will be open, so visitors can see its award-winning flour being ground, before buying some to take home.

John Hyde, Vice-Chair of the Stotfold Mill Preservation Trust, said: “The Events Team have again excelled themselves and put together a fantastic show, which we hope visitors will appreciate and enjoy.”

Tickets cost £8 for adults, £5 for senior citizens or £4 for children between four and 16. For details go to www.stotfoldmill.com