Malham Show 2002

24 August 2002

The best thing about this year's show, was, that it ever got off the ground in the first place! What with last years Foot and Mouth epidemic, and the concurrent bouts of bad weather, its destiny seems always to be in the hands of the gods.
However, it goes without saying, that the effort that was put into the organisation, and the dedication, of the behind the scenes workforce, was unrestrained, and it shows. The atmosphere was electric, and not only in the skies.
All the participants were bursting with enthusiasm, and apart from the normal entries there were new events this year, amongst others... the Trailquest Mountain Biking, an orienteering-style event covering some 40 miles and organised by The Learning Experience at Trenhouse. The competition attracted over 70 entrants and will almost certainly be held again here next year.

The tent, displaying entries in the horticulture, floral, arts, crafts and baking classes proved as popular as ever, displaying a wealth of talent from the local community and further afield.

The children's classes attracted an excellent number of entries in a whole host of events from baking and crafts to fancy dress. Classes ranged from the traditional to the modern.
Amongst the young winners was six-year-old Sally Slater, who touched the heart of the nation when she battled for survival after being struck down by a virus. After a successful heart transplant, she is now preparing to rejoin her classmates at Kirkby Malham School.
At the Malham Show, she won 11 prizes, and took part in the fancy dress. Her decorated mask won her the trophy for the best exhibit in art, in her age group.

As for the normal show line-up...we had the usual suspects... horses, sheep, cattle and the sheep dogs, bless them....and; you would have not been surprised if Babe had come out onto centre stage, claiming a prize for most eloquent?
I myself enjoyed stroking the odd ferret or two, but, like a bad curry, I regretted it for hours afterwards.

This year's president, Jack Wilson, was certainly in good spirits and said he felt proud to take on the role in this special millennium year. He has been involved with the show for 47 years now, and said it was special due to the community spirit. "Its warmth and friendliness are special,"

At the end of the day though, the end of the day came early. With the rain assaulting the most hardy of farm hands, and some...certainly the Raptor Centre mobile unit, having to be beamed up from the muddy depths by tractor, we all had to give it up till next years rainbow over Malham.

Thanks to CragFace for contributing this page.
 

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