AFTER a quarter of a century, Northlew Horse Show will take place this year for the final time in its existing format, after the organisers decided it is time to ?hang up their hats?.
The popular annual show was first held in 1977, and this year will be the 25th edition ? the event was cancelled two years ago due to the foot and mouth crisis.
Twenty-six years ago, members of Northlew Victory Hall committee decided to put on a small horse show. From modest beginnings the show has grown in stature and now boasts a full day?s programme with classes catering for all members of the family.
The show attracts top horses and ponies from across the South West and enjoys the expertise of nationally-renowned judges.
But show secretary Mrs Stella Hore said the event was also important for local ponies and riders and believed a ?combination of the great and the humble had given Northlew Show its unique atmosphere.?
The show takes place on Saturday, August 2. Although this will be the final Northlew Show in the existing format, the organisers are hopeful some people may wish to get together to continue the tradition and put on a new show in the future.