A BARROW-load of fun for everyone is on the cards for visitors to this year's Dalston Show tomorrow.

With forecasters predicting a day of sunshine, the village's annual helping of showtime will be positively bustling and vibrant with a bumper programme of events.

This will come as a relief to all concerned as in 2019 the show was hit by torrential rain and then in 2020 and 2021 organisers were forced to cancel because of the pandemic.

“We’re always really amazed by and appreciative of all the support we get,” said Honorary Secretary Nick Utting. “From the farming community, the trade stands, the entertainers through to the most important people - those who come along on the day to enjoy what we have to offer.”

This year’s show is an important one for Nick, as it’s his last after 44 years. Nick was part of the team who revived the show in 1978. “The show must go on, and it will,” said Nick, who’s been a good friend to the agricultural community in Cumbria for over 40 years.

“I’ve been privileged to be involved and I’ve enjoyed it hugely. But we have a new and very able secretary, Julia Richardson taking over and she’ll be supported by a tremendous committee.”

From the mayhem that is terrier racing to ornately-carved stick dressing, and the best three onions to exceedingly good cakes, Dalston Show is all set to make this year one to be remembered.

Over 80 trade stands will fill the field with colour as they display their wares on sale or promote the work of their organisations. There will be plenty to eat and drink from the various caterers and speciality bars.

There will be lots going on in the Main Ring, including sheep dogs and ducks, ferret racing, terrier racing and the ever popular Cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling. The day ends with tug of war, which attract teams from throughout the area.

And entertainers delighting the crowd will include Mighty Smith, Musical Ruth, "Dangerous" Steve, Jesters Circus and music by the Border Concert Band.

There’s lots of free parking and the fun starts at 8am when the gates open.