Plans in place for 2016 Saintfield and District Show

“This will be our fourth year at the RUAS venue,” confirmed show secretary Laura Meharry.

“And it really is a case of Saintfield Show getting bigger and better.

“This year’s event will feature all of the usual competition classes for cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, horses of all sizes and types, donkeys, dogs, rabbits and other pets.

“We already have a phenomenal entry of sheep with classes across all breeds tremendously well supported. This year will see Saintfield Show hosting Jacob sheep classes for the first time.

“The excellent penning facilities at Balmoral, both for sheep and other livestock, is attracting livestock exhibitors from as far away as Co Tyrone. This is all tremendously positive.”

Pygmy goats will also feature for the first time at Saintfield Show in 2016.

Laura continued: “But for equine enthusiasts our 2016 event breaks new ground in having the Main Arena at Balmoral Park made available for the show jumping and Ridden Hunter classes.

“This surface is renowned as one of the best in Ireland on which to host competitive equine competitions.

“The dressage classes, which have proven so popular over the past number of years, will take place in the sand arena.”

Home Industry classes will also feature prominently at this year’s show. For dog and pet lovers, one event not to be missed is the K9 Expo Dog Lovers’ Show and International Pet Stylist Grooming Competition.

“This is the second time the event has ever been held and will constitute a major attraction for this year’s Saintfield Show,” confirmed K9 organiser Nichola Moore.

“We have a whole host of classes for everyone, from newcomer to experienced, plus a range of Asian Fusion and creative styling classes.”

K9 Expo is a unique pet educational fair, aimed at dog lovers and pet care professionals. The event also promotes responsible dog ownership, education and family fun-filled events for all ages, particularly children.

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster will also have a major presence at this year’s Saintfield Show.

Laura added: “Members of Moneyreagh YFC will be in attendance, participating in a series of fun-packed competitions.

“We are delighted that such a very proactive relationship has been developed, once again, with the Young Farmers’ Clubs.”

Laura confirmed that schedules for this year’s show will be available over the coming days. They can be accessed courtesy of the show’s web site: www.saintfieldshow.co.uk

She continued: “There is already a great buzz about this year’s show. Apart from a bumper listing of competition classes, the trade support has been extremely encouraging.

“All of this bodes well for an event that will deliver a tremendous day out for competitors and visitors alike on June 18.”

Ballyred Coaches, Saintfield will be offering a coach service from the Square in Saintfield to this year’s Saintfield Show at Balmoral Park. Buses will leave the Square in Saintfield at 9.30am; 11.30am and 1.30pm. The last bus heading back for Saintfield will depart Balmoral Park at 5.30pm.

For information, email Laura Meharry on [email protected].