The Royal Show - Media & PR - Press Releases

February 2nd 2009

Royal Show Plans to Deliver Bigger, Better Show for 2009

The Royal Show has added seven additional classes to its extensive Equestrian programme as it builds the mid-summer Show into a “must visit event” for all horse enthusiasts.

The added equine classes come as part of a major revamp for the Show featuring all that is best in English farming, food and the countryside, as well as a stronger than ever equine competition programme.

After three years dogged by appalling weather and animal disease outbreaks, Show organiser, the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE), has announced major investment in many new elements designed to restore the event’s prestige when the gates open at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire from July 7th to 10th.

Commenting on the 2009 re-launch, Honorary Show Director, Mark Spencer said:

“The Royal Show has always been particularly proud of its equine classes and the overall presence of horses at the event. Every year we seek to add to and improve the content of that aspect of the Show and bringing in these seven new classes is a real boost for 2009.”

The seven new classes are:

• Horse of the Year Show Qualifier – Shire Horse of the Year Championship
• Ridden Heavy Horse
• Heavy Horse Young Handler
• Horse of the Year Show Qualifier – Lead Rein of Hunter Type
• Horse of the Year Show Qualifier – Intermediate Working Hunter Pony
• Private Driving – Two Wheel Light Trade
• Private Driving – Four Wheel Light Trade

“The Royal Show means business in 2009. We want to give the countryside something to celebrate in what promises to be a tough year for town and country alike,” said Mark Spencer.

Other innovations for Royal Show 2009 include:

• A new showground layout making it easier for visitors to plan and enjoy their day;
   
• An expanded farm energy area;
   
• More livestock and a higher profile for UK cattle, sheep and pigs;
   
• Improved machinery competitions and a clear showcase for machinery innovation;
   
• A return to the mid-week slot which farmers and traders prefer;
   
• Increased collaboration with industry associates and partners to offer wider appeal and increased networking opportunities;
   
• An emphasis on fresh and local in all food outlets with Farmers Market food courts in all showground areas;
   
• A new logo and better on-site signage.

Plans are progressing well and despite the down turn in the economy, there are clear and encouraging signs that exhibitors and traders are responding to the Show’s new and ambitious approach. Weekly sales are running in line with previous years.

 “We have also changed our ticketing arrangements making it easier for group bookings, coach visitors and schools to visit the Show,” said Mark Spencer.
 “We are expecting in excess of 10,000 school children over the four days and we are delighted that major sponsors, including leading supermarket groups, are working with the Society to make education and farm trails a key part of the offer for young visitors.”

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For further media information contact:

Peter Crowe
Ceres
T: 01189 475956
M: 07967 504034
E: peter.crowe@ceres-pr.co.uk

Naomi Barry
Ceres
T: 01189 475956
M: 07920 098498
E: naomi.barry@ceres-pr.co.uk