There has been ‘exceptional demand’ to see the county’s biggest agricultural show, hosted annually in Redbourn, prompting organisers to release an additional 2,000 advance tickets.
The 130th Herts County Show, from May 28-29, features 1,500 animals, agricultural displays and demonstrations, over 300 trade exhibitors and an extensive entertainment programme.
This year’s line-up includes the Devil’s Horsemen stunt team, National All-Human Circus and Herts Farmers Fantastic Forktrucks display and the Titan the Robot comedy show.
With tens of thousands of people flocking annually to Redbourn for the two-day event - a major local fixture on the calendar - general manager and show secretary Mike Harman said that releasing additional advance tickets made sense.
He explained: “It benefits us and visitors, as people can get through the gates faster.”
Mike said that many people returned regularly to the event, including a man who first enjoyed the show with his then girlfriend whom he later married, and they now visited as a family.
He added: “The feedback shows the number of people who say they come here every year. It’s unique. I know there are bigger shows, and it’s difficult to define why it is popular, but part of it is that we are in an urban county.
“If it was a 100 per cent agricultural show, it wouldn’t work as well. We are a charity, and one of our key objectives is to educate people about the farming way of life. So the show is about 75 per cent agricultural and 25 per cent entertainment and attractions.
“People coming here want to see the animals but equally, they want to see the other parts of the show. What motivates us is there is a lot of loyalty. This show is bringing the county together.”
Aside from the events on offer, there is also a wide selection of produce, arts and crafts.
The ‘Made in Hertfordshire’ marquee was fully booked before the start of March, with sausages, biscuits, cakes, deli produce, jewellery, candles and skincare available.
The show itself helps boost the local economy by millions of pounds.
Mike said: “A survey was carried out about three years ago and an estimated £2.5 million is spent, for example to cover what goes into the show, advertising and sponsorship.”
A quick glance at the lengthy list of sponsors shows many local firms are also supporting the event.
• The advance ticket hotline is 0344 850 2122. For more information and contact details see www.hertsshow.com
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