Richard Holden MP recently got stuck in at the famous Eastgate Sheep Show.
For rural North West Durham the Eastgate sheep show is a subtle and important moment of inflection and reflection. Well into its 38th year this year and with over 50 classes for the breeds, it’s going as strong as ever.
It is the fair that kicks off the agricultural and county show season, without which summers in North West Durham just wouldn’t be the same. Britain has a long and proud tradition of agricultural and county shows, this was particularly apparent in Eastgate over the weekend. The 350 that take place a year across the country fuel economic activity in our rural communities, and provide incalculable value to the societies that they celebrate. They showcase the very best of farming: the fine sheep on display in Eastgate did not disappoint.
Last year, the first time since the global pandemic the show went ahead, the show was blessed with good weather, slight drizzle allowed for, but this year it was an uninterruptedly glorious day. Hundreds of people were admiring the best in breeds with a tasty beer in hand or just soaking up the rays.
It’s always an enjoyable day when our farmers come together after the lambing season. The fair’s focus was very much around the Swaledales and Mules that top our fells and uplands. Due to the open fell grazing, they are the breeds of sheep we can see most from afar adorning our spectacular views.
Upland hill farming is the reason our landscape exists like it does. The way it is managed, as well as the sheep grazing on it are the main reasons it is so picturesque. Without them, and the hardworking farmers who make it possible through mud, sweat and tears, our beautiful part of the world would just not be the same.
While the sheep are obviously the main event, the show is a great social occasion and brings everyone together for a good chinwag making it one of the friendliest of atmospheres around.
Commenting, Richard Holden MP said:
“This was my second Eastgate Sheep Show since becoming MP for North West Durham, and I had a brilliant time in the blazing sunlight, tasting some of the fine local beers in the beer tent.
“With the sun shining, I can think of no better way to spend the day. With many there like me, who grew up in the North Pennines but not from farming stock, it is a great opportunity to mix with our farmers and catch up on their year so far.
“It’s the first country show of the year, I’m really looking forward to the bigger ones later in the summer. I hope they’re as good fun as this was and want to see many of you there supporting our local people, animals and businesses!”