Dorset County Show teams up with Dorset Scrapstore

Organised by Dorchester Agricultural Society, Dorset County Show will take place from Saturday September 1 to Sunday September 2, at the Dorchester Showground. The two-day annual show attracts more than 60,000 people each year since it began in 1840, and boasts a variety of attractions, livestock, and fun for all the family.

Dorset Scrapstore, which has been running for 18 years, is a charity which provides local communities and schools with access to affordable, recycled craft materials which are donated by businesses across the county. As part of the partnership, Dorset Scrapstore will be offering free membership to every Dorset County Show visitor to encourage them to use repurposed materials where possible, including when taking part in homecraft competitions.

Jennifer Hesse, Trustee of Dorset Scrapstore said: “It is a privilege to be partnering with Dorset County Show this year to raise awareness of reducing waste, encouraging recycling and repurposing items where possible to stop items from being disposed of unnecessarily and going to landfill.

“As a charity we rely on regular donations of unwanted materials from local businesses which allow us to continue to be a low cost community resource for crafting and creativity. We are thankful for the support we have received from Dorset County Show and look forward to seeing all of the homecraft entries.”

Will Hyde, show secretary, added: “During Dorset County Show we showcase rural skills and educate people on how farming promotes sustainability and the vital role it plays in our everyday lives. It is a fantastic opportunity for us to work together with Dorset Scrapstore to reinforce this message and bring together members of the public from all over the county to enjoy a jam-packed programme of activities.”

Nicki Ralph, Vice-Chairman of Dorset Agricultural Society, said: “I think it is very important that everyone plays their part to reduce, recycle and reuse any waste. I am delighted that Dorchester Agricultural Society is working with Dorset Scrapstore to promote this by encouraging the next generation to use recyclable materials particularly in the Homecraft Section classes.”

Over the weekend competitive classes will be taking place for more than 20 different types of cattle, over 30 different types of sheep, goats and pigs, as well as in homecraft, horticulture and sheep shearing.

Camel racing will be the main ring attraction for 2018 along with show jumping, a funfair and a large range of more than 450 trade stands including Shopping@theAvenue and Dorset Artisan Craft Marquee.

Also new for 2018 is The Fabulous Food & Farming Education Area which will provide visitors with information on where our food comes from before it is sold in the supermarkets.

Please visit dorsetcountyshow.co.uk or call 01305 264249 to find out more details on what’s planned for the weekend, how to get there and book tickets. Children under 16 go free and tickets are £15 if booked in advance. Tickets can also be purchased on the day at the show for £18.