South of England Show 2008

This is the South Coast's biggest celebration of farming and country life!

2008 was certainly no disappointment as literally thousands of people flocked to the South of England Show held at Ardingly, near Haywards Heath and enjoyed three days of glorious sunshine.

Events this year included show jumping, carriage driving, daily displays by heavy horses and a polo demonstration. Although the cattle competitions were still a major feature of this important show, pigs were in the limelight as this was the 'Year of the Pig'. To celebrate, a pig village had been set up and a variety of different breeds could be seen, including rare long-haired woolly pigs called mangalitzas. In fact the South of England Agricultural Society's president, the Duke of Norfolk, brought one of his own pigs along to open the show!

As well as the animal classes, arena events included stunt rider Jason Smyth and his Adrenaline Tour Motorcycle Show. The crowds were enthralled ... especially when he progressed to the quadbike jumps!

The flower marquee proved to be another popular attraction with excellent exhibits and some notable prize winners this year.

Those keen on shopping were naturally attracted to the 'Rural Crafts Marquee' - possibly the most popular shopping area within the Showground. 'Paul Wright Jewellery' had a prominent corner position at the very front of the marquee and the mouth-watering silver and gold jewellery display remained a focus of attention for the appreciative crowds on all three days!

Jewellery designer and manufacturer, Paul Wright, said "Our new silver and gold jewellery designs for 2008 were extremely well received at the South of England Show, and our 'daisy jewellery' collection was most certainly a firm favourite this year!"

Silver Daisy Necklace - £69