ONE of the country’s oldest agricultural shows is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors back to Mottram this summer.
The Mottram Show returns on Sunday, August 16, for another packed day of farming, family entertainment and community spirit.
About 3,000 people are expected to attend the popular event at the showground on the junction of Apple Street and Mottram Old Road.
Organised entirely by volunteers from the Mottram and District Agricultural Society, the show has been bringing people together since 1904 and this year’s event marks the third consecutive summer show since its successful revival.
The upcoming event follows an encouraging Spring Show, which attracted around 3,000 visitors across the weekend – matching the attendance at last year’s Summer Show. Organisers were delighted with the turnout, reflecting the continued support from exhibitors, volunteers and the local community.
Visitors can look forward to horse, cattle and sheep competitions alongside a family fun dog show, poultry displays, handicrafts, and arts and cookery competitions for adults and children.
There will also be sheep shearing and baling demonstrations, vintage tractors, stationary engines, military vehicles, horticultural exhibits, birds of prey, trade and charity stalls, fairground rides, live music, a food court and a licensed bar. More attractions are expected to be announced closer to the event.
Several changes have also been introduced this year following feedback from visitors, exhibitors and competitors, with a focus on improving accessibility.
New partnerships with Tameside Neurodiversity Hub and Concord Mobility will see a dedicated Calm Zone and on-site mobility scooter and wheelchair hire available. The show will also include a sheltered infant feeding area, baby changing facilities, accessible toilets and disabled parking.
Claire Dunkerley, the society’s safeguarding lead, told the Correspondent: “Mottram Agricultural Show is a fantastic family day out, packed with countryside fun and plenty to discover. Children can meet farm animals, watch horse and dog displays, explore vintage machinery, get involved in hands-on activities and enjoy delicious local food and treats.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to put the screens away, get some fresh air and experience rural life in a friendly, welcoming setting.
“Every ticket sold helps support the Mottram & District Agricultural Society’s charitable mission to advance agriculture and education in the science of agriculture. The show gives children the chance to learn more about farming, food production, animal care and the countryside, while helping to keep a much-loved local tradition alive for future generations.”
Entries are already open online for the horse, cattle, sheep and cookery sections, while the handicrafts and arts schedule has now been released. All trade stalls are now sold out.
The Society is also appealing for volunteers to help both in the lead-up to the event and on the day itself, as well as businesses and individuals interested in sponsoring the show with packages starting from £25. More details are available at https://mottramshow.co.uk.
Advance tickets are also on sale online at https://mottramshow.co.uk/show-tickets/ with visitors able to save 10 per cent by booking before the event.
As the Society is a volunteer-run and not-for-profit charity, all proceeds from ticket sales are reinvested into future shows, helping to ensure the long-running community event continues for generations to come.
Miss Manchester 2026, Clare Hopwood, will be attending the show in support of the event.