The event was founded way back on July 20th 1858 when a meeting was called at The Corn Exchange under the Chairmanship of Sir W. Smith when it was decided to form The Tenbury Agricultural Society forthwith for the Teme Valley and surrounding area.
During the first 40 years the show travelled around as a ploughing match to which competitions were added. It was felt that a permanent site was needed so Mr W. Norris was appointed secretary (a post he held for about 40 years). So a permanent site was provided on Castle Meadow by Lord Northwick, a great benefactor of the show.
Now in its 157th year, it continues to grow, and every year a team of dedicated volunteers put on a show that attracts 1000's of visitors. With exhibits, competitions, main ring events, animals, children’s entertainment, tractor pulling, trade stands, concessions and local ales and ciders.
The show started off with judging for the sheep and cattle breeds along with separate judging for Hereford Cattle (as part of the 30th National Show of Hereford cattle). This took place in teeming rain with the owners (old and young) trying to keep their well-prepared animals in best possible condition. The need for full waterproofs and walking boots/wellies was very necessary.
By mid morning the first breaks in the weather appeared and so the ever-growing number of visitors could get a better view of the sheep and cattle on view, before the award of winners rosettes and cups took place around 12 noon. While this judging was taking place the first runs in the Tractor pulling were taking place, with the wet ground taking it toll on the tractors trying to get the heavy trailer to the chequered flag. Later in the day when the ground dried out a bit more combinations got to the flag.
With such a large showground visitors had a wide range of activities to watch, including the very competitive National Young Farmers Tug of War Finals, for both men and women.
In the main arena there were displays of Falconry, the Bolddog Lings FMX motorbike display team, parades of winners, pony club mounted games and at the end of the day a steam engine tug of war.
In the countryside arena there were sheep dog, beagles and sheep dog and duck display managed by an Australian!
Along with equestrian and vintage cars on display there were many stands and stalls showing both agricultural equipment and items to buy or eat.
Planning for the 2015 event is already well under way with the event taking place on Saturday 1st August 2015 in the same location.
