Celebration of all things rural at Bury Agricultural Show

From towering Heavy Horses to racing pigs, it was a celebration of all things rural.

The popular charity event, now in its 88th year, welcomed entrants, exhibitors and families who enjoyed a taste of countryside tradition.

Karen Southwell, one of the organisers, who has been on the show's committee for 16 years, said: “A wonderful day was had by visitors, farmers, traders, exhibitors, judges and performers."

Described as "true celebration of the land and the people who work it", it was a showcase for the best of rural life and agriculture.

One of the highlights was the impressive turnout of Heavy Horses, including the rare Suffolk Punch, as well as a wide range of livestock – cattle, sheep, donkeys, and dogs – all competing for the coveted Best in Show Champion title. Judges had a tough job, with standards described as exceptionally high.

The main ring kept crowds entertained throughout the day, with fast-paced racing pigs, the thrilling stunt act Dangerous Steve, and a Young Farmers lorry pull and tug of war, which saw enthusiastic participation from spectators.

There were also displays across the showground by farriers, tractors, egg producers, miniature ponies, and local arts and crafts exhibitors. The Dunk Tank proved a particular favourite.

Competitions weren’t just for animals – entrants of all ages highlighted their skills in floral arrangements, fruit and veg displays, artwork, and even a contest for the best egg yolk.

A wide selection of trade stands and rural craft stalls offered everything from locally produced cheeses and pies to feather art, handmade toiletries, and gourmet dog treats.

Organisers were delighted with the turnout and community support.

Mrs Southwell said: “The Trustees would like to give a huge thank you to all this year’s show sponsors and volunteers who helped make the 2025 show such a memorable event. Your continued support keeps this community tradition alive and thriving.
“We hope everyone enjoyed every moment, and we can’t wait to welcome you back next year – Sunday, June 28, 2026.”

Thankfully, despite the stifling heat, the St John Ambulance reported a quiet day, with no major incidents.

For information, updates, or to get involved as a volunteer for future shows, visit the new website at www.buryagricultural.org.uk or find them on Facebook at Bury Agricultural Show.

2025 Results

Donkeys

Champion - Beechfield Stirling Moss - Pam Moon

Reserve Champion - Beechfield Stirling Silver - Pam Moon

Sheep

Best in Show Champion – Suffolk Aged Ewe owned by Kate Crossley

Best in Show Reserve – Coloured Ryland Shearling Ewe owned by Stephanie Shaw

Suffolk Champion – Kate Crossley

Suffolk Reserve – Martha & Alfred Gornall

Coloured Ryland Champion – Stephanie Shaw

Coloured Ryland Reserve – Stephanie Shaw

Primitive Champion – Carrie Tyson

Primitive Reserve – Zach Turner

Valais Blacknose Champion – Emily Newton

Valais Blacknose Reserve – Shannon Lynam

Blue Texel Champion – Stephen Taylor

Blue Texel Reserve – Stephen Taylor

Native Pure or Cross Champion – J & R Launders

Native Pure or Cross Reserve – Arry James Young

Continental Champion – Annabelle Unsworth

Continental Reserve – Annabelle Unsworth

Young Handler 10 years & under, 1st Katie Tennant, 2nd Alfie Frizzel, 3rd Tommy Wainwright

Young Handler 11 -16 years, 1st Alfred Gornall, 2nd Lucy Carter, 3rd Martha Gornall

Heavy Horse

Best in Show Champion – Woodhouse Cameo – Margaret Threlfall

Best in Show Reserve - Holbeache Scarlett – Richard & Nina Dunnett

Suffolk Champion – Holbeache Scarlett – Richard & Nina Dunnett

Suffolk Reserve – Holbeache Unise – Richard & Nina Dunnett

Shire Champion – Woodhouse Cameo – Margaret Threlfall

Shire Reserve – Knutsford Capri – O C Whittaker and Sons (Silver Spoon Winner)

Best in Show Champion – Woodhouse Cameo – Margaret Threlfall

Best in Show Reserve - Holbeache Scarlett – Richard & Nina Dunnett

Cattle

Interbreed Cattle Champion – Hollyvale 1 June 6th – A & P Massey

Reserve Champion – Highlee Precious Enya and calf – T Severn

Native Breed Champion – Highland Precious Enya – T Severn

Native Breed Reserve – Blelack Egotist – J Webster

Hereford Champion – Hollyvale 1 June 6th – A & P Massey

Hereford Reserve – Hollyvale 1 Benedict – A & P Massey

Continental Champion – Sercar Valkyrie – S Speakman

Continental Reserve – Taymar Ultra Special – Taymar Livestock

Commercial Champion & Reserve – R Foster

Champion Young Handler – 1st V Webster, 2nd S Speakman

Farriers

1st & 2nd Year Apprentice – 1st Harry Copsey, 2nd Fyn Hilton, 3rd Charlie Rindall

3rd & 4th Year Apprentice – 1st Amanda McGlynn

Open Shoe Making – 1st Eddie Gardener, 2nd Ben Taylor, 3rd Josh Firth, 4th Gareth Holt

Charity Class – 1st Ben Taylor, 2nd Eddie Gardner, 3rd Sammy O’Gara, 4th Trevor McGlynn

Eagle-Eye – Eddie Gardner

Overall Champion – Eddie Gardner

Arts & Crafts

Elsie Falshaw Trophy – Best Exhibit in Handicrafts – Denise Sykes

Best Egg in Show – Paul Kerfoot

Dogs

Best in Show Champion – Louis

Best in Show Reserve - Odin

Best Puppy up to 18months – Ralph

Lovely Lady – Tikoo

Fabulous Fella – Reggie

Golden Oldie 7 years plus – Jess

Best Kisser – Hugo

Tennis Ball & Spoon race – Darren

Child Handler – Reggie

Best Trick – Jen

Best Crossbreed – Nico

Best Pedigree – Louis

Best Rescue – Jock

Waggiest Tail – Daisy

Judge’s Favourite – Soldier

Gorgeousest Girl – Millie

Best Boy – Odin

Fancy Dress - Toby