PHOTO GALLERY: Despite most of the Island seeing horrendous downpours of rain the sun continued to shine down on the 91st Chale Show at the weekend, which was enjoyed by thousands of Islanders and tourists alike.
The annual event, held just outside Chale on Military Road, has once again been hailed a great success with over 1,800 exhibits present for the traditional horticultural show alongside a packed weekend of entertainment, traction engine displays, fairground rides and local produce.
The main arena acts did not fail to impress with the highlight being ‘The Kangeroo Kid’, who wowed the crowds with daring stunt demonstrations. A number of show visitors were given the opportunity to get involved with the performance when they were invited to squeeze onto a quad and wheelie around the arena.
Guido Louis demonstrated fantastic horsemanship skills with an unique mix of fast paced equestrian stunt riding and mesmerising liberty work. Other arena acts included South Coast Falconry Display, Medina Marching Band and of course magician David Randini.
Throughout the showground there were displays of Island vintage tractors, steam and military vehicles plus a local farmer’s market, children’s creative activities and the popular community kids running races. One steam engine had only recently returned to steam having been sat in the children’s playground of nearby Blackgang Chine for almost 50 years.
Once again The Sunflower Live Stage raised money for The Earl Mountbatten Hospice with the likes of Lucid, Soul Lounge and Company B performing throughout the weekend, amongst others. A pop-up Hospice shop was situated alongside. In 2016 the event raised over £1,200 for the charity.
Andrew Woodford, Show Manager has said:
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many people who make this show possible, all of whom do this on a voluntary basis. Their help is greatly appreciated and without them the show would not be possible. There are so many people who work so hard before, during and after the event. I am extremely grateful to all of them.
“We apologise to all those affected by the error made during Lucid’s set and also for those having difficulty leaving the site late on Sunday afternoon, which will be addressed and planned further.
“So many wonderful comments – we thank you for your continued support”.
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