PERFECT weather conditions ensured that huge crowds attended the tenth anniversary Claragh Bridge Cross-Community Vintage, Classic and Agricultural Show at Drumaroad last Saturday (27 July).
Record numbers of visitors and vintage vehicle entries of various types attended one of the biggest shows since its foundation in 2004. Crowds also enjoyed the return of the popular Jone’s mill and bailer in action. There were also helicopter rides too on the day which attracted a lot of interest.
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Powering up on the police quad at the Claragh Bridge show are Freddy and Tilly Harris from Spa.[/caption]
Many stalls from community, voluntary and charitable organisations such as PIPS, Mind Your Mate and Donard Marie Curie Fundraising Group as well as trade stands were in attendance and there was a country market too where you could buy local farm produce and a craft fayre. The Drumaroad & Clanvaraghan community Association also hosted ‘The community Zone’ which saw a steady input of visitors to the big tent through the day.
This year too saw improved catering facilities with a sheltered sit down area set aside for the visitors which did not stop through the day keeping everyone fuelled up. And there was a wide range of mobile caterers who provided a range of tasty food from fresh pizzas, crepes and hot food.
The opening of the Blacksmith’s shop on the Ballynahinch Road by local businessman Walter Watson, who was actually born at this family setting, provided an interesting step back into the old days. The display of original blacksmith tools was enjoyed by visitors. Other attractions included the annual Tug ‘o’ War competitions as well as the traditional sheep shearing exhibition which attracted good crowds.
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There was also throughout the day free Children’s entertainment with music and the compere for the day provided by Eamon McCann. The Newcastle Neighbourhood Police and the Down Police and Community Safety Partnership were also on hand giving advice to everyone about security and safety in rural areas.
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Barney Feenan, Natie Connor, Raymond Lundy and James Logan look over a JAP pump at the Claragh Bridge show.[/caption]
Claragh Bridge Vintage Club Chairman Liam Quinn said: “I would like to pay credit to the efforts of the committee members and volunteers in organising the show.
“It is a great credit to the dedicated voluntary efforts of all involved who worked, planned and organised the show since January to ensure an enjoyable day for all the visitors who attended.
“The tenth anniversary show has without doubt been the most successful since 2004 and was attended by large crowds and record entries beating previous years.
“The weather also played a huge part ensuring people enjoyed the carnival festival atmosphere and wide range of attractions. Given the present economic climate the show was far beyond the committee’s expectations how successful the show was this year.”
“Claragh Bridge Vintage Club wishes to thank all sponsors, advertisers, patrons and supporters who attended the tenth anniversary show. The proceeds will be donated to local charities at a later date.”
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