We all had a splashing time!
Reporter: Lewis Jones
Date published: 14 June 2010
Torrential rain failed to dampen spirits at the Saddleworth Show yesterday as over 8,000 fun-seekers flooded into Greenfield for a day to remember.
Matching last year’s record turnout, organisers from the Saddleworth and Oldham Metro rotary clubs were thrilled as people streamed through the gates raising thousands for charity, despite the day being cut an hour short due to the downpour.
The horn blew to kick start the annual bonanza at Churchill playing fields with the two-mile Wharmton Dash.
Have-a-go Granada reporter Paul Crone was back for his third slice of show action, taking part in the run including a 600ft ascent and a wade through the river before crossing the finish line.
Panting for breath, he said: “It was very hard, it was steep from the word go and I couldn’t believe the speed that some of the Saddleworth runners were getting up there.
“I’d rather kayak the Channel again, that was a steadier pace.
“I really enjoy this show, it’s like coming home for me every year and it’s fantastic to see familiar faces and so many people turning out.”
The undoubted highlight to this year’s extravaganza was Joseph’s Amazing Camels which dazzle the crowds.
Complete with jockeys in Arab dress, the four desert beasts galloped around the arena as tense youngsters looked on – eager for their 50p bets to pay out.
Elsewhere the Tame Valley Vintage and Classic Car club celebrated its 25th anniversary, by displaying 85 immaculately kept treasures, from Buicks to Bentleys.
Adventure was also in the air for the hundreds of children at the show as they harnessed up to scale the climbing wall, showed their skills in canoes on the river and channelled World Cup fever at the football tournament.
The “Yanks are back in Saddleworth” team brought a touch of 40s glamour to the fields while the frantic donkey derbies had onlookers whooping and cheering.
As the heavens opened at 3pm, Oldham Band Lees played on defiantly while the giant Dutch musical organ cut through the torrent to add some fairground magic.
Show director John Ainley, said: “We are so thankful to the people of the local community who, despite the day being cut short, came out in their masses to support us.
“The entertainment was first class, the weather was alright until the last hour and every penny donated will go to charity.
“It’s getting harder and harder to top each year.”
One team affected by the sudden rains were the Malhamdale falconry group.
The crowds looked on in awe as the stunning birds of prey swooped down at breakneck speed from the grey skies into the arena and flew through the legs of brave volunteers.
However the sudden change in weather was a little too much for stubborn Juliette, a Russian Steppe eagle, who had to be brought down from a roof by hand as she sulked in the downpour.
Oldham East and Saddleworth MP, Phil Woolas, said: “It is one of the events that is the glue that holds Saddleworth together and one of the reasons that it is such a special place.
“There are more voluntary groups in my constituency than any other in England and so many of them are here today — it shows off Saddleworth at its very best every year.”
Veolia Environmental Services, which has backed the event for the last two years, was praised for its support.
Martin Curtois, VES group communications manager, said: “We are delighted to support the show. It really touches the heart of the community.”
