Show to be bigger and better than ever

Organisers hoping for record crowd Saddleworth

Organisers of this year’s action-packed Saddleworth Summer Show are aiming to give the flagship event a real country feel — mixed with a great family day out.

A dazzling array of quality attractions are expected to encourage a record-breaking family turn-out for Saddleworth’s biggest and most popular spectacular.

Organised by Saddleworth and Oldham Metro Rotary Clubs, the show takes place on Sunday, June 14, on Churchill playing fields, Greenfield.

This year, there will be two main arenas and an increased number of acts to entertain visitors.

Sponsored by the Oldham Evening Chronicle and Veolia Environment Services, the event will offer a fascinating display by birds from Malhamdale Falconry, which were hugely popular with last year’s audience.

Petwise Zoo, a famous mobile zoo with up to 100 animals, will provide shows throughout the day including quirky terrapin and ferret racing.

In keeping with the country theme, visitors can try their hand at laser clay pigeon shooting and fly fishing — on grass. The area’s famous llamas and exotic breeds are scheduled to make an appearance — along with donkey rides, a donkey derby and the legendary duck race.

The English Civil War Society will provide a colourful display and give visitors the chance to experience the sights and smells of the 17th century.

In the show’s main arena, Tom and Tilley Tomfoolery — the world’s almost flying three-wheeled comedy car — is billed as Punch & Judy meets Wacky Races. The Wacky Tumblairs, a comedy-style trampoline act, will also appear.

Children are encouraged to take part in a prize-winning scarecrow competition where they will gain free entry if they dress in appropriate garb. In addition, there will be all the usual morris dancing and brass bands as well as charity and craft stalls.

Motor enthusiasts will be able to drool over vintage cars and bikes and, in addition to a wide variety of food outlets, there will a beer tent and wine bar.

Last year, the show, which donates all proceeds to local rotary charities, raised nearly £8,000, attracting 4,000 visitors.

Check the the show’s new website at www.saddleworthshow.org.uk for further details.