Charles Abel • Devon Show
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Showtime The Devon Show bravely stepped out as the first of 2021’s major county shows to happen in “the real world” - showcasing the very best of Devon farming. Charles Abel was there.
BEST OF DEVON A healthy attendance ensured a great atmosphere, with competitive livestock judging and a tremendous community spirit. Pre-bookings were up 600% helping offset losses from 2020’s cancelled event and hopefully heralding an end to pandemic misery for rural folk. Richard Maunder, Farmers Club Honorary Treasurer and Chief Executive of Devon County Agricultural Association dubbed the event “the most challenging Show we have ever put on”. Small businesses had suffered badly, people were still on furlough, staff numbers had been cut. But the Show team still managed to recruit 500 trade stands - average for a normal year but splendid in the circumstances. The event is said to add £10m to the local economy.
CLUB RECEPTION Farmers Club members and guests met in the YFC Pavilion for drinks, canapes and an up-beat look to a brighter postcovid future from 2020 Club Chairman Allan Stevenson (above right) and Devon Agricultural Association President David Fursdon. “Covid has forced us to do some things differently this year, and some of those things might be good to do again,” Mr Fursdon commented. “We are facing a time of great change. It’s difficult to work out where farm income streams are coming from, but we’ve adapted before, so we need to stay flexible and identify and change our businesses accordingly. And the most genial place to discuss such things? That must surely be The Farmers Club Bar!”
10 • The Farmers Club Summer/Harvest 2021
