Spectators turned up in their masses to marvel at a range of ploughs and support the annual Isle Of Wight Memorial Ploughing match that took place at New Wolverton Farm, Shorwell weekend before last (6th April).
Red Funnel Isle of Wight Ferries was the title sponsor for the Memorial Ploughing Match, which first began at Mottistone Manor Farm back in 2009 to remember four respected ploughmen. The ploughmen were a great asset to farming and sadly passed away in 2008. Today, proceeds from the event are donated to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice charity to help further its work and support.
The match is now one of the premier countryside events on the Isle of Wight, with a unique and friendly atmosphere. The event raised a total of £3118 for Earl Mountbatten Hospice to help them continue to provide vital end-of-life healthcare on the Island.
Organiser, Karen Sheath, commented:
“The ploughing match idea was originally thought up to remember Steve, who was himself a keen ploughman. The passing away of three further ploughmen changed our ideas slightly and we decided to have one match to remember them all. Everyone has supported the idea as a great way of remembering some very much loved people. The idea of raising money for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice at the same time has been greatly received as everyone seems to have known somebody whose lives have been touched by the care shown at the Hospice.”
Featuring horse drawn ploughs, vintage tractors and their modern equivalents, the Memorial Ploughing Match makes for an enjoyable day out for all the family, and a rare opportunity to learn about the Isle of Wight’s agricultural past and present.
Karen continued:
“Despite some testing conditions, everybody seemed to have a smile on their face. The horse ploughing attracted the crowds once again, and we are very grateful to Red Funnel for sponsoring the horses travel to the Memorial Ploughing Match this year.”
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