Wet and woolly at Dales village show (From The Northern Echo)

Wet and woolly at Dales village show

7:41am Thursday 4th September 2008 in

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TORRENTIAL downpours failed to dampen spirits at a Yorkshire Dales village’s 103rd Grand Annual Show yesterday.

The heavens opened at 11am and, despite brief glimpses of sunshine, the rain continued all day in Muker, Swaledale.

But chairman Ernest Whitehead said it had been a good show despite the weather, with the whole community rallying round to ensure the event was a success.

He said: “This was the worst weather we’ve had on show day for years – we never thought it would be this bad.

“But other than the tug-ofwar being cancelled, and the fell race having to be re-routed over the bridge instead of through the river, it hasn’t caused too many problems.

“People have just accepted it is wet and got on with it, and there has been a brilliant atmosphere all day.”

In accordance with Muker tradition, children from the local primary school are given the day off to enable them to take part in the show.

“Kids don’t mind a bit of rain, in fact for many, it’s a case of the more mud the better,”

said Mr Whitehead.

“The show is a big part of life in the Dales and it is important children learn about their heritage – it’s very educational as well as a fun day out for them.

“After all, they are the future of the show and of the Dales.”