Claragh Bridge Agricultural Show is a great success as crowds descend to enjoy the fun
It was a glorious day in the sun – well most of the time, apart from a little rain – at the annual Claragh Bridge vintage, classic and agricultural show writes Jim Masson.
Despite have missed running the show for two years since the Covid pandemic, the hard working committee led by Chairman Liam Quinn came out and produced an excellent show.
There was no shortage of activities to get involved in for all the family and the many stalls and food wagons added to the fete atmosphere.
The animal petting sanctuary was kept busy, and the bouncy castle never stopped… along with the ‘barrel rides’ pulled by a large quad.
And Brennan’s ice cream van vendor must have had a sore arm filling cones.
Music filled the air, there were children’s events, Lanark black-faced sheep competitions, a country market, old bricabrac stalls CDs by the hundreds.
The bailing demonstration was great to watch as the men loaded up the baler and produced the square bails.
There was a huge car and tractor display
Every show has a story and this show was no different.
I had hardly managed to take a photo when Aidan Verdon, a car enthusiast grabbed me by the elbow and told me of a great act of human kindness shown by members of the Vintage Vehicles Group.
One member, Eugene Woods who was celebrating his 70th birthday on the show day found the front of his 1985 Uno 45 smashed by a hit and run drive two weeks ago.
The bumper was smashed, and the headlight with part of the bonnet and front left wing.
Club member Helen Mercer who owns a 1974 Porsche 911 fundraised through the club to pay for the repairs of Eugene’s Fiat Uno.
However, Eugene did not know his car would be there at the show in prime condition. It was to be a surprise.
They even organised a nod and a wink from a friendly police officer who said “I wouldn’t be getting the car fixed just now if I were you… forensics you know!
“They might want to take a look at it! (Cough cough!!”
The car was then taken away to ‘forensics’ !
His daughter told him they were taking a ‘wee run’ to the show on the big day. So off they went. And on arrival he discovered his car there, in immaculate condition. Repaired.
“It was a great birthday present indeed,” said Eugene. “I’m so grateful to Helen and all the members for their efforts in helping me restore the car.
“There are only seven left of these in the UK so it is a bit of a rarity.
“I love the wee car, and just could not believe they had managed to get it fixed up in such a short time. They are a great bunch of people.
“This is one birthday I’ll not forget in a hurry.”
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CHECK THE PHOTOS BY JIM MASSON HERE
Show chairman Liam Quinn said: “It’s been an excellent show, very well attended.
“We have been working steady for the past few weeks but this week in particular has been hard work getting the finishing touches in place.
“The show has run from 2004 and has grown in size. It’s very popular. We had to close up during the Covid pandemic but were back in action again.
“The weather today has been good most of the day with with just a small bit of rain. But overall it’s been a huge success.
“The proceeds of the profits from the show each year is donated to charity. We support many local charities and this year the Downpatrick Autism Family Support Group was one of our main charities.
“I’d like to thank our many sponsors, and our helpers and volunteers. It is all their efforts that make thew show a success.
“We’re looking forward again now to the 2024 show.”
