Dancing sheep, local food and rural pursuits are just some of the attractions at the county’s newest country show, which springs into life later this month.
The Spring Countryside Show throws open its gates at Turnpike Showground between Gillingham and Shaftesbury on 23 and 24 April with the theme ‘Bring Spring to Life’.
More than 50 exhibits, demos and must-sees promise a weekend jam-packed with open-air and indoor fun for all the family.

Marvel at the countryside skills of the farrier, woodcarver, blacksmith, stick-maker and coppicer, and maybe try your hand at a bit of willow weaving.
In the ‘Rural’ ring, heavy horse logging, terrier racing, gun dogs and horseback falconry are the order of the day, and in the ‘Woodland’ arena the famous Dorset Axemen will battle it out against the clock to chop through vast tree stumps.
The Farm Yard has a funny sheep show, farm machinery and goat-milking, with the milk transformed into delicious ice cream!
And in the classic cars, military vehicles, autojumble and steam engines area, a high platform offers a fascinating bird’s-eye view into the inner workings of the massive machines.

Green-fingered sorts should head for the stunning show gardens, floral displays and gardening goodies, while foodies can indulge their passions at the cookery area with its local produce and recipe ideas in the Cookery Theatre.
A festival area with live music, even more food and local tipples will open until 10pm on the Saturday so visitors can enjoy a festival vibe under the stars.
James Cox, event organiser, said: “We’re so excited to bring this new country show to Turnpike showground. The arrival of spring is always such a positive time of year and this show embraces and highlights all the wonderful rural pursuits, traditions and talented craftspeople our region has to offer. There really is something for everyone to enjoy over the two days.”
It’s organised by the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show team, who have the pedigree of bringing the renowned annual Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show to the county every August.
Tickets are from £8.50 for adults and £1 for children – but the prices will increase once a quota is reached!
To find out more, buy tickets, enter the gardening competitions or get involved, visit www.springcountrysideshow.co.uk or call 01747 823955.

by Lorraine Gibson