Tens of thousands flocked to the 56th annual event, including the Society’s 2024 President, The Duchess of Edinburgh, to immerse themselves in the charm and excitement of rural life at the picturesque showground in Ardingly, West Sussex.
With a diverse array of agricultural and equestrian displays, rural crafts, horticulture, and an abundance of food, drink, and shopping, there was something the whole family could enjoy. However, clear highlights of the three-day show were the jaw-dropping displays from Atkinson Action Horses, who kept onlookers poised on the edge of their seats in the main arena, international showjumping, the grand cattle parade, equine showing classes, and the livestock competitions.
New for this year was the Countryside Ring, which showcased falconry, axe skills, and search-and-rescue dog demonstrations. Further additions included the Woodland Craft Area, with interactive demonstrations ranging from ancient basket-making skills to the art of hedge laying and even corn dolly making.
Entertainment and music from Casablanca Steps set a lively atmosphere, and visitors explored the vintage agricultural machinery and took in the scenes at the British Army village and medieval re-enactment zone. The unique chance to observe and learn about fly casting, sheep shearing, and wool spinning was held at the dedicated Discover the Countryside area, and those who saw the sheep show all came away smiling.
The Bees & Honey Marquee was a sweet success with informative bee demonstrations, observation hives, and a magnificent showcase of local produce. Furthermore, keen horticulturists could explore the garden design competition entries and enjoy the floral displays. There was also the chance to meet representatives from the Society’s 2024 charity of the year – Veterans’ Growth – a charity from East Sussex that provides crucial support and resources to veterans through horticultural therapy.
In a welcome message to visitors, the South of England Agricultural Society’s 2024 President, HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, said:
“This show exists to bring people together to learn more about agriculture, to shine a light on our rural industries and showcase the very best that our food producers across the South East have to offer.”
Corrie Ince, Show Director for the South of England Agricultural Society, added:
“We’re delighted that this year’s show was another resounding success. We simply couldn’t put on this event without the support of those who attended, and we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who travelled to the event over the weekend, as well as our incredibly dedicated team of staff and volunteers.
“Our aim at the Society is to inspire people of all ages with a memorable, fun-filled visit that also informs and promotes the countryside and the industries involved – and I think we’ve certainly achieved that once again. Across the weekend, I’ve seen genuine connections between attendees and hardworking farmers, landowners, and skilled craftspeople who have been here representing the South of England at its finest.”
The Society’s next show is the Autumn Show & Horse Trials on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd September 2024. Visitors can watch riders compete in the showjumping, dressage, and cross-country phases, and discover a plethora of countryside sports, displays, and ‘have-a-go’ activities, all designed to celebrate the joys of the countryside, and canine and equestrian pursuits. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.seas.org.uk.
