It will hopefully be third time lucky for the Melplash Show as plans begin for the hugely popular event to go ahead on Thursday, August 25.

The date was confirmed at the Melplash Agricultural Society, where the current president, Nigel Jones, and chairman, James Vickery, were both re-elected and are looking forward to at last hosting the show.

Mr Jones thanked all those that continued to support the society during the last two no-show years, particularly the members and sponsors who made it possible to run a selection of events during the year. These included the homecraft and horticultural show, Discover Farming, as well as the garden and allotment, farms, flocks and the young farmers' dairy stock judging competitions and the hedgelaying and ploughing match. All were extremely well supported.

The treasurer, Bill Dupont, revealed that the society was - thanks to loyal sponsors and members - still in a healthy position.

As well as the re-election of some board members, the society said farewell to two longstanding directors, Marcus Beresford and Bill Dupont, who both were presented with gifts and given honorary lifetime membership to the society, along with Philip Crawford who retired from the board in 2020.

Three new directors were elected to the board - Richard Bugler, Will Bowditch and Simon Wakely.

Mr Jones said: "Richard is well-known to us all as the auditor to the society for many years. As a chartered accountant, his financial advice will be invaluable. The Bugler family's involvement with the show goes back many generations, and I am sure he will continue that tradition with distinction.

"Dr Will Bowditch has been closely involved with Discover Farming for a number of years and again his knowledge of various show matters will be of real benefit to the board and the society.

"I am delighted that Simon Wakely has joined the board. His huge knowledge of the locality and of so many people within our prime membership area who might be able to help us will, I am sure, be invaluable to the society.

"As the changing of the guard is inevitable, and indeed good, as new ideas are essential for any organisation, I am convinced by what has happened over the last year that the society is in good health and can only prosper in 2022, especially as we are going to have a show. I cannot wait."

The society also recognised people for their outstanding service and dedication to the show and society with society pins. These were awarded to Carole Brown, Roy Vickery, Peter Yeates, Bill Dupont, Marcus Beresford, Charlotte Dunnill and Roger Scammell.

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