PICTURE GALLERY: The sun broke through the clouds to reveal a hot and sunny day at the start of the 89th annual Chale Show today (Saturday), which saw thousands of visitors descend on the showground in the South Wight with even more expected to visit tomorrow.
Wowing the crowds in the main arena for the first time since 2006 was stunt motorcycle rider Jez Avery (featured image), who entertained with his impressive skills on both two wheels and four. A performance to remember in the arena today for the first time was the Stampede Horse Stunt Company (pictured above), with both acts continuing tomorrow on the final day of the two-day event.
The Wight Diamonds marching band performed their traditional pieces in front of the welcoming crowds and later in the day the children were entertained with races and magician David Randini. White Falconry flew hawks, eagles, owls and more with a spectacular and informative demonstration of the bird of prey’s abilities.
The event, held just outside of Chale on Military Road, included a display of Island vintage tractors, steam & military vehicles; a local farmer’s market; children’s creative activity and a circus skills area plus professional street entertainers, jugglers and circus performers. In addition, a variety of local businesses and charities showcased their work on a variety of stalls.
At the center of the the show was the Island’s largest horticultural show with over 1500 exhibits on display including flowers, vegetables and crafts. The items will be auctioned off on Sunday at 17:20.
Youngsters were also given the chance to shine at the show thanks to the Chale Horticultural Society, who invited schools to enter produce grown throughout the year in each school’s allotments. Some 18 schools plus the Isle of Wight College have been involved in the project and have received 50 to spend on their gardening clubs, with a further £50 donation for those who were able to display their produce at the show.
Raising money for the Island’s Earl Mountbatten Hospice, The Sunflower live stage once again played host to a variety of local bands and musicians including Switch Duo, Luciz and Special Brew, with the Hospice stall selling all manner of items nearby including the recognisable sunflowers. In 2014 a total of £1300 was raised.
The show continues tomorrow (Sunday 2nd August) between 11:00-17:00. Adults/seniors are £8 and children under 16 go free.
PICTURE GALLERY:
