August showing began for us with the surprisingly entertaining Tockwith Show. This is an unaffiliated show for Shetlands, but was well supported, with a good entry over several classes. Unfortunately, no pony-accompanied spectators were allowed at ring-side, so I missed our pony's first win, and best result so far for us. I can recommend this show particularly for the quality of handcrafts, being demonstrated on the spot by crafts people. Giftware and other products were also of a noticeably high standard. A very large show to look around.Ripley Show again offered another great day out. There is a good variety of livestock at this show, in extremely picturesque grounds, although there were only two classes to choose from for Shetlands. Interestingly, this is one of the few shows that offers a class for unregistered Shetlands.
Gargrave Show was affiliated, so well supported by the serious Shetland fraternity. Plenty of classes, a nice sized ring, and some quality Shetlands made this a very interesting day.
Bank Holiday Monday is always the day for the Epworth Show. This is quite a large local agricultural show, with several mountain and moorland classes, as well as open classes for coloured, young stock and miniature horses and ponies. Quite good entry numbers, considering the large number of classes, and a good, sizable venue.
September begins for us at the Keighley Show. This will be a good Agricultural Show, with lots of livestock, entertainments, trade stands, and of course, Shetland Ponies.
