77th Show Report

ALDERMASTON & WASING SHOW, SATURDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER

The Old Mill, Aldermaston

The Show’s 77th year was a great success. We have no turnstile but considerably more people came to the Show than in recent years and the car park has never been so full.

Competition entries were up 24% over last year and the quality of the produce was truly excellent. Not one but TWO monster pumpkins could only be displayed on the ground – the lady beside them on the right shows the scale!


Many fierce Monsters out of Vegetables were to be admired (see photo).

Sadly the Irish Dancers were unable to come but Falconry displays (right) more than made up – and the Dog Championships challenged proud dog owners. Traditional skills were also on display and coconut shying, crockery smashing, egg-throwing contests and children’s races provided huge entertainment. Local groups and schools were able to advertise themselves and raise funds. There were ducks everywhere, racing in the mill-stream (see below) and also dressed up in the Marquee with often ingenious names. Canal Boat trips were a popular new attraction.

DUCK DERBY

Simon Holley gathers in the racing ducks
Simon Holley gathers in the racing ducks

This year’s Duck Derby was a classic, with fine weather, good water flow and an enthusiastic crowd cheering as the Heats progressed to an exciting final. With a First Prize of £100 ticket sales were excellent and our two chosen charities will benefit accordingly.

Full details, including all the winners of our many trophies and Duck Derby prizes, and also of the two charities we’re supporting this year, as well as our many sponsors, are to be found using the links below:-
Heartfelt thanks to all the firms and organisations who support the Show every year, and to all the people who work tirelessly to make this event possible, for the enjoyment of many. There are far too many to name in this short report!

Photos: A. Brown, P. Oldridge