THIS summer was the first time in six years that Mottram Show opened the gates to the public – and it was well worth the wait.
One of the oldest agricultural shows of its kind in the country made a triumphant return last month – and organisers the Mottram and District Agricultural Society are already looking ahead to putting on next year’s extravaganza.
It will take place once again at the showground – at the junction of Apple Street and Mottram Old Road – on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
Anyone who would like to be part of the show can express their interest by emailing Claire Dunkerley, the Society’s General Secretary, at secretary@mottramshow.co.uk
Suggestions and ideas for attractions for the main ring are also being welcomed for next year.
As for this year’s show, it more than exceeded the expectations of the committee as over 2,000 people enjoyed a packed programme of activities.
“At our post-show meeting, everyone was very pleased with how everything went – it went better than we expected and we had a big round of applause to recognise everyone’s hard work,” Mike Martin, the Society’s Chairman, told the Correspondent.
“We think around 2,300 people visited across the day. If we’d have had 1,000 people, we’d have been happy so we were really delighted with the turnout.
“We had one very light rain shower on the day but it didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits or make the ground unwalkable and the weather soon brightened up. We had a tractor on standby in case anyone got stuck in mud if it rained, but thankfully it wasn’t needed.”
The committee won’t know until the end of its financial year in December exactly how much money the show raised, but 100 per cent of the profits will go towards next year’s show – including increased signage and repairs to the showground.
A successful pilot was held last year at the show’s new location, but this year was the first time since 2018 that the popular event was officially back on the calendar – and organisers have been pleased with the feedback they have received from the community.
“There have been lots of comments on social media and via email thanking us for bringing the show back, which have been really nice to read,” said Claire.
“We have had some positive suggestions for next year’s show, given to us in a polite and constructive way which we will take on board.
“We plan to go around other shows to help spread the word, get more people to come and hopefully get some more catering establishments for next year.”
There were plenty of success stories on the day and lots of people that the committee would like to thank for making the event enjoyable for everyone.
“The Horse Show went very well and there were lots of entries,” explained Mike. “The Dog Show was also really popular and definitely something we’ll be bringing back next year.
“The sheep, cattle, vintage tractors and military vehicles were all well received too. A lot of people were interested in finding out more about the different types of sheep and cattle, so there was a nice educational aspect to the show.
“The children loved the police cars and fire engines, not to mention making a mess in the hay!
“We managed to get everyone’s cars parked on the field and we have more land that we could open up next year if it gets busy. All in all, there were lots of pleasant surprises for us.”
Mike continued: “We would like to thank everyone who attended. Without the public, there is no show.
“The judges of the shows did a great job. We paid expenses but some turned this down and wanted to do it for free, so we are grateful to them.
“We wish to thank Tameside Council for their support and helping to facilitate the showground, as well as the Civic Mayor of Tameside and her Consort for attending on the day.
“We express our gratitude to all of our sponsors for their contributions, from loaning equipment to providing raffle prizes.
“And a big thank you to all members of the Mottram and District Agricultural Society for their dedication and hard work behind the scenes over the past year.”
The Society – which is a registered charity made up entirely of volunteers who meet monthly – has seen an increase in membership since the show.
To find out more about the Society or becoming a member, visit https://mottramshow.co.uk/about/