Thousands flock to Countess of Warwick Show in Little Easton

Over the bank holiday weekend, the usually quiet village of Little Easton was a hive of activity hosting The Countess of Warwick Country Show. There were 3,000 visitors on the Sunday, and around 7,000 on the Monday.

Now in its 26th year, the show was originally set up as a continuation of the annual bank holiday celebrations provided by the Countess of Warwick when she lived in Easton Manor. Visitors enjoyed live music from band Odyssey Blues and a hog roast. Some of the larger exhibits included a horticultural marquee, a classic car show and the craft marquee, with jewellery and cushions for sale.

Throughout both days, the main arena saw events including sheepdog rounding competitions, dressage horses and vintage tractor and ploughing contests.

Little Easton Church became an art gallery for the weekend. Visitor, Pauline Browring, said: “It’s been excellent, this is about the fifth or sixth time we’ve come and it always lives up to our expectations. Even when the weather is bad, people are still really enthusiastic.”

Categories for the fun dog show included Best Trick, Most Handsome Dog, and Waggiest Tail.

Attractions such as the Tug Of War and face painting were hugely popular with children, as was the animal tent with miniature ponies, sheep, and alpacas.

Jo Davies, show committee member, said: “Talking to all the stall holders, they’ve all had a fab day and have been really busy. It has been really enjoyable.”

The show was presented by The Five Parishes of Broxted, Chickney, Tilty, Great Easton and Little Easton, raising funds for the churches.