IT’S been a busy week for William Purdie, pictured, as he prepares for his first Dumfries Show in the role of chairman.
And the event is in good hands as he’s been involved for the last 38 years.
Mr Purdie, pictured, from New Abbey, said: “I have been working at the Dumfries Show since around 1985.
“I spent the majority of my time as an attending member for the cattle before I moved into the vice-chair role in 2019.”
He is keenly watching the forecast for Saturday, describing it as ‘touch and go’, and said: “I’m hoping and praying that the weekend will be dry so that the event can be as amazing as possible.
“Our trade stands are fully booked and we have a promising amount of junior entries for the crafts.”
Keen to see a good turnout, he added: “There really is something at the Dumfries Show for everyone, no matter who you are.
“We have cattle and sheep, horses and stunt riding, industrial machinery and farm equipment.”
Mr Purdie is pleased at the level of livestock entries and the bumper crop of industrial entries too, and praised his team for lining up a good programme.
He said: “Once the show is over, I hope to look back on what we have created and I hope the event is well-attended and enjoyed by all.”
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TIMINGS have been released for the events at Dumfries Show this weekend.
The programme starts at 9 am on Saturday morning with the judging of the fleeces and all the horse sections except Clydesdales.
Next up at 9.30 am will be the judging of the Ayrshires, Holsteins, beef classes and all sheep sections.
At 10 am, the craft fayre and food festival will open to the public, while the judges will head for the goats, Clydesales and other cattle.
Also at 10 am, the home and garden arts area will open to showgoers.
It’s 1 pm for the sheep interbreed competition and at 1.30 pm Dumfries and Stewartry Foxhounds will be in the main ring.
The grand parade of livestock is scheduled for 2.15 pm, along with the trophy presentation.
Last but not least, the On The Edge Display Team will appear at 3.15 pm.
Away from the showfield, Lower Nithsdale Young Farmers will hold their show dance that night at Chancers Nightclub from 9.30 pm, for over 18s only.
