County shows in United Kingdom
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During the warmer months in the UK there has developed over the last two centuries what one can call County Shows. These outdoor shows give an opportunity for visitors to view and trade in all that each county has to offer. Most are basically agricultural shows. There the farmers and breeders show off their cattle or crops. These are usually judged and the winners gain much prestige. In their wake there are many trade stands where companies try to sell the latest farming machinery, feeds, fertilizers and other products pertaining to farming. As these shows have developed so other trade stands and activities have been added to make the shows more attractive to locals and visitors alike.
There are usually additions such as showjumping, fairs, military displays and food exhibitions. In the early years these shows used to be held in different locations but in the 1960.s the local agricultural societies started to purchase land to create permanent showgrounds. The first purpose built showground was in Harrogate where the Great Yorkshire Show is held. Whilst the larger counties hold their own shows such as: Berkshire, Royal Cornwall Agricultural show, Devon, Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Lancashire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire, Suffolk, Surrey and Yorkshire. On the other hand some counties have grouped together and created such shows as: The Three Counties Show (Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire), The East of England Show (Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire) The Royal Welsh Show, The Royal Highland Show, The South of England Show (Sussex), The Bath & West Show (Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire) and The Royal Show (the largest of all which is held in Kenilworth, Warwickshire but encompasses all).
Many visitors find that there are many trade stands selling diverse articles from clothing to the finest wines. They are a great day out for the visitor and a must for businesses involved. For the South of England see :[1] or [2] or for a humorous look at the County Shows see : [3]
