After last years problems, which were soon to a large extent overcome, the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society are looking forward to this years three day event with restored confidence, writes Meyrick Brown.

Having successfully appealed to internal and external stakeholders for their invaluable feedback and suggestions, an ongoing consultation process has come up with what the organising committee foresee as an expanded, innovative and much improved summer event.

As ever the animals will be taking centre stage in the rings as they go head-to-head for the top honours. This entire, somewhat unique show will come alive and entertaining, culminating in a spectacular grand parade.

From superb beef and dairy animals, pigs, goats and horses to poultry, dog agility competitions and the dog show, visitors will be able to see and appreciate some of the country’s finest exhibits. Sheep exhibitors will now have a new dedicated area.

The YFC will have their own dedicated area on the showground, to hold tournaments, competitions and display exhibition work; More young handler classes will be featured in the livestock section and look out for another ‘first’ -the specially dedicated Pembrokeshire Little Farmers’ Activity Centre, which will host a range of educational competitions. Be sure not miss it.

The emphasis of the show has always been on agriculture, farming and food while connecting with both our rural and urban community and this will be core for 2018.

There are so many new attractions and displays, including robotic milking of cows (first seen last year), automatic feeding of calves, the new-look Valero Countryside Paddock, a vast array of agricultural machinery and equipment, farrier demonstrations, classic car displays, a skateboarding area, and indoor go-karting.

Some of our headline attractions for 2018 will be meeting Joseph’s Amazing Camels, and watch or take up the challenge (boys and girls) in the fantastic Irish Sheaf throwing competition throughout the three days.

As part of the revised plan there will be a new shopping mall and a higher number of trade stands with an expected increased footfall.

The Castell Howell Food Hall finds a new home on the showground on the main avenue while the ever-popular craft and horticultural section will be located in the Parkhouse building.

Also look out for a new main arena viewing gallery with bar, accessed from main avenue, and there will be a Stockman’s Bar adjacent to the livestock housing compound.

Also new for this year will be reduced rates for entry after 4 pm. No-one will want to go home early as the live stage will provide entertainment until 8.30 pm - this year’s County Show (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, August 14, 15 and 16) will be the place to be for all residents across West Wales and the many visitors and exhibitors from much further afield.

The show will be accessible for all with a facility to rent a wheelchair.

Chief Executive Jan Pearce reminds me that the Society is indebted to all it’s sponsors, members, exhibitors, judges, stewards, tradestands, staff and supporters.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for taking the time to provide us with your feedback and input which has culminated in these new exciting plans -we appreciate every one of you in helping to make the show the prestigious event it is”.