Plans are being made for the world’s largest gathering of Shire horses, taking place in Nottinghamshire from 11-12 March. The gentle giants will be gathering for the Shire Horse Society National Show at Newark Showground for in-hand, in-harness and ridden classes.
Equestrian display team Equistry will also be joining the event. Specialising in multi-period historical and theatrical demonstrations, Equistry was a popular addition to last year’s event.
The National Shire Horse Show. Picture by Real Time Imaging
The Vintage Tractor and Engine Club will be displaying historical vehicles and there will be food, trade and other stalls for visitors to browse.
“We were given a really warm welcome when we held our show at Newark Showground for the first time last year and we are looking forward to returning in March,” said Secretary of the Shire Horse Society and Show Director Victoria Clayton.
“Our National Show is the world’s largest gathering of Shire horses and the chance for us to put this wonderful breed in the spotlight, celebrating the role of Shire horses in our history. The breed is still on the ‘at risk’ register of British breeds so it’s important that we continue to raise the profile of Shire horses and help protect these gentle giants of the horse world.
Equistry will be returning to the popular event
“Our National Show is the flagship event of the Shire Horse Society, so we hope that lots of visitors will join us to support our charity, which plays a vital role in securing the future of the Shire horse.”
The show is believed to be one of the oldest, almost continuous horse shows in the world, having been held for the first time at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington, London, in 1878, when the charity was named the English Cart Horse Society.
Last year, it was held in Nottinghamshire for the first time and organisers have decided to return to the venue in 2023. For more information and tickets, click here.
There will be ring classes as well as displays for visitors to enjoy
Lead image by Real Time Imaging
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