Burwarton Show made just £700 despite 20,000-strong crowds

Organisers said the 2018 Burwarton Show, held at the start of August, was still a huge success, with fantastic weather and great attractions pulling a 20,000 strong crowd.

And despite the slender profits, the charity still managed to give out more than £9,000 for worthy agricultural causes across the region.

Organised by the Burwarton & District Agricultural Society, the Burwarton Show is run by hundreds of volunteers.

Long serving farmer Henry Yates, who has been involved in the show for many years, said membership had been increased and that spending would have to be examined.

"We are finding it difficult to make a profit these days," he said.

"It is because of the cost of marquees and entertainment, and the rules and regulations are so much greater than they used to be.

"This year's profit was a slender £722, although we had a superb show.

"Membership has had to be increased for next year. There will be a careful look through costing."

He said there are reserves, but that the show could not dip into them too hastily.

"We cannot live in the past, we must look forward," Mr Yates said.

"We need reserves in case of a cancellation of the show. We've in the past had to cancel twice. We must have reserves - we need it for a rainy day."

More than £9,000 was given out to good causes across the area.

They included £1,500 for the Ludlow and District Beekeepers Association, £500 for the Brown Clee Young Farmers and £350 for the Boy's Brigade.

Mr Yates said: "We are a charity and we want to help people. Our first aim is to put on a irst class agricultural show."

Burwarton Show chairwoman Mary Williams said: "Costs keep going up, so we have to keep an eye on the budget.

"We give more to different causes and that is part of our charitable status. It's good to know we are helping other people.

"Things are in hand for the next show. We've got our main ring entertainment organises – Atkinson Action Horses.

"Most things for the show are already booked. As soon as one show finishes we start organising the next."

The next Burwarton Show will take place on August 1.