By Anwen Francis

Established pre-second World War as a horticultural show to raise money for the British Red Cross, Nevern Show, described as the small show with a big heart, is moving location again.

In 2018, the show will be held at the home of Geraint Rees of Bayvil Farm, Nevern, after eight years at its current location.

The show is renowned for its family atmosphere and most remember it being held at Nevern Meadows for many, many years before moving to its current location at Ffynnonddofn Farm, Newport.

Finding a suitable location and field is a difficult task for any show committee. Over 20 acres is needed for such a show consisting of parking areas for the public, parking for exhibitors and various rings, marquees and tents.

“It’s a difficult task trying to find a field. It needs to be a flat, level one where heavy machinery can be taken on and off easily with good access to the highway. You also need two accesses for emergency vehicles and a landowner who is willing to have animals and people on it,” said past secretary Gill Chalk.

She added: “Agriculture has changed so much over the years and so has the weather and climate. Years ago in the 20s and 30s, exhibitors would lead cattle to the show or have horse drawn carts to take them to the event, now large, heavy lorries are used and access, health and safety have become such important issues. Back in those days, people would show an animal they had on the farm if they thought it was good enough, now some animals are bred for the show ring only.”

The show lapsed during the war and re-started again in 1947. It was located at Nevern Meadows for around 50 years, but with more wet summers especially during July and August, the land couldn’t sustain having such large vehicles on it, and it was time to move on.

“We try not to cause any disruption to the landowner. It’s a big ask to host a show before, during and after the event with rules and regulations, but we are so grateful to all landowners past and present for the use of their fields and we look forward to the 2018 show,” concluded Gill.