The sun shone over Ardingly this weekend as the South of England Agricultural Society held its first show of the year, Spring Live!
The two-day event, which was sold out in advance, showcased and celebrated the great British outdoors while adhering to strict Covid-19 regulations. Although visitor numbers were restricted, and social distancing was in place, Spring Live! was still able to offer a host of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
People were able to see a variety of farm animals, take part in chocolate and circus skills workshops, experience the thrill of the funfair and even try their hand at archery and axe throwing. There were mesmerising maypole dancing displays, the famous, entertaining ‘Sheep Show’, and a host of traditional countryside activities as well as information and displays about the newly updated Countryside Code.
Corrie Ince, Show Director at The South of England Agricultural Society, commented:
“After having to cancel this event in 2020 it was wonderful to be able to host Spring Live! and give people the opportunity to get out and celebrate the British countryside and the arrival of spring. People have learnt in the past year to appreciate the great outdoors when out on their daily walks, so to be able to offer the opportunity for people to have a great day out as well as support and learn more about the countryside and its industries has been fantastic.
“It wasn’t just our visitors that enjoyed the event — our exhibitors were also delighted to be trading and interacting with people again, which many haven’t done for 14 months.
“We are very fortunate to have more than 50 acres of event space, so it was great to receive feedback from our visitors stating they felt very Covid safe. The safety and well-being of our guests and exhibitors has always been of utmost importance to us which is why we were awarded Visit Britain’s ‘Good to Go’ COVID-secure venues mark of approval.
“We are now looking forward to the annual highlight of our calendar – the South of England Show, which this year takes place from 11th to 13th June. This will be the first year the show has run from a Friday until the Sunday and the number of tickets available will be limited for everyone’s safety. We will continue to adhere to government guidelines to ensure the show is carried out in the safest possible way, whilst still providing a fantastic day out for all the family.”
Tickets for the 2021 South of England Show must be bought online in advance from seas.org.uk and cost £19.80 for adults, and £18 for senior citizens/students (including 10% online discount which ends midnight 3rd June 2021). Children under 16 go free with a paying adult with a suggested donation of £1 for children aged 5-15.
For information, please visit www.seas.org.uk.
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