Guernsey Press

New West Show president is confident it will be a breeze

A BIGGER arena and the mini monster truck event are new additions at this year’s West Show, said organisers, as they battled to erect the tents in windy conditions in time for tomorrow’s opening.

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New West Show president Richard Ashplant is confident that his team of volunteers will overcome the winds and get the showground ready for tomorrow. (Picture by Peter Frankland, 25489463)

Half a dozen small tents were yet to be put up around lunchtime yesterday due to the breezy weather, however the West Show’s new committee president, Richard Ashplant, who took over the role in January, was confident that everything would be completed on time.

‘Preparations are going well, despite delays to the erection of some of the tents,’ he said.

‘But we have a good team, so it’s all falling into place and it won’t mean that it will be finished any later.

‘There’s lots of exciting stuff for this year, such as the bigger 90-metre arena and the introduction of new activities for kids – everyone will have a great time.’

There will be a variety of events and activities at this year’s show, including lawnmower racing, Ridgeside Falconry displays, traditional Guernsey dancers, a funfair, horse riding competitions and a number of exhibitions, such as crafts, florals and cakes.

This year will also feature a new attraction for the kids, the mini monster trucks, described on the show’s website as the only attraction of its kind in Europe, featuring mini replicas of Big Pete and The Grim Reaper which can be driven over a specially designed course.

Some competitions started on Saturday, with the horse-riding continuing yesterday.

Maddy Vaudin and Sophie de Carteret, both 14, were taking part in the best beginner/novice category. ‘We’ve done the show before,’ said Miss Vaudin.

‘We really enjoy it, it’s fun and not as competitive as some, plus I’ve won in previous years so I really like it.

‘I’m riding Gort, who is falling asleep at the moment, but I’m sure once we start it’ll be OK.’

Sophie de Carteret said they were old hands at this competition.

‘We’re veterans really,’ she said.

‘Freddie, who I’ll be riding, is great and I’m excited to go.’

. The West Show is on tomorrow until Thursday and opens at 10am both days. Single-day tickets cost £6.50 for adults, £3.50 for five to 15-year-olds, and free for under-fives. Two-day tickets are £10 for adults, £5 for five to 15-year-olds and free for under-fives, all available on the gate. Car parking is £2.

. For more information and the schedule, visit https://thewestshow.com.