Frome’s annual Cheese Show has been described as the ‘biggest and best show yet.’ The show, now in its 134th year, broke last year’s record of 17,000 visitors.
Show secretary Brenda Scott said, “While we are still totalling the amount of showgoers there were, we are absolutely certain that we have beaten last year’s record.
“It went really well, all the feedback has been very positive. We had so many people turn up, despite the weather.”
Brenda said the reason for the show’s continuing success can be credited to how there is “something for everyone with a wide range of attractions.”
This year saw a huge 1,300 entries in the Cheese Show including international entries from the USA, Netherlands, Italy and Spain, with all their produce on display in the Cheese Pavilion. 2011 also saw the launch of a new ‘Global Champion Cheese’ award for the best cheese anywhere in the world. The winning entry was the Cropwell Bishop Blue Stilton by the Cropwell Bishop Creamery from Nottinghamshire.
Amongst the most popular attractions were The Rockin’ Horse Equestrian Stunt Team, where specially trained horse-back riders impress with tricks and stunts.
BBC Countryfile’s Adam Henson was one of the celebrities on hand for the show’s entirety, chatting to show-goers as well as signing autographs, presenting winning trophies and opening the Country Pursuits Area.
Brenda said, “Adam was great. He was chatting to as many people as possible, signed autographs and presented trophies. He always had time to stop for a chat, we were very luck to have him.”
Celebrity chef, Martin Blunos formed part of the Cheese Show judging panel, who was joined by a team of experts including food critic Charles Campion.
Ex-Coronation Street star turned cheese maker, Sean Wilson, was also at the show with his company, Saddleworth Cheese Co.
“The atmosphere was fantastic,” said Brenda, “you could tell people were really enjoying everything the show has to offer.”
This year’s cattle show also saw an additional 100 entries from last year, totalling over 650 competitors.
Plans for next year
Brenda added that plans for next year are already being formulated, “One aspect we shall be looking into next year is changing the bus service for the show, which proved very popular this year. We will look to expand this for next year. We do take on board feedback from the community,” she said, “we always try and put on acts and performers that will appeal to everyone.”
