Falstone Show

Falstone Border Shepherds Show is fast approaching. Saturday 22nd is the date and an important one at that.

Farmers and shepherds alike are busy titivating up their sheep ready for the scrutiny of the judges.

Shows are a shop window for the sheep minded fraternity. An opportunity to see what each other has, how tups have crossed, what might be available on the market in the future. Breed lines are discussed, finer points scrutinised, tales told.

Mebbes more important than anything else the shows provide a gathering; an opportunity for like minded people to get together, have a crack, leave the everyday humdrum behind and enjoy themselves.

Farming can be a very insular life, especially the further out bye you get, there are less staff on the farms meaning more work for those left, the weather always takes it toll what ever the season, there isn't always anyone on hand to whinge to or joke with. An excuse for a good day out is always welcomed.

The show isn't just for the sheepy folks though - oh no, it provides an opportunity for everyone to get together and compete it they wish. The women folk will have flour up to their elbows baking away furiously to see if they can produce that perfect scone, cake or what ever. Kids will be trying their best handwriting, baking too (or hoping mam has some leftovers for them), painting pictures and making crafts. Gardeners will be digging the tatties, lifting carrots all with great care and attention to detail. Stick dressers giving that final polish, knitters and sewers wrapping garments carefully in brown paper ready to transport with care to the industrial tent.

The afternoon will be filled with frivolous doings....... rumours of human dog agility are flying around, then there's the children's sports. The sheep dog trial which ought not to be frivolous but depending on the sheep on the day can be a challenge to both dog and handler. The fell race for those energetic sorts, the beer tent for the none energetic sorts. Tombolas,raffles, crafts, home produce and plant stalls, so much to see and do at Falstone Show.

Local or not, town or country, Falstone Show is well worth a visit. Get yourselves there.