The Stoke Bliss Agricultural Improvement Society Ploughing Match

Just the title of this organisation and event conjures up a bygone age. A visit to this event does so much more. In these days of 'fast' living it is somehow comforting to stand and watch men (I think it was exclusively men) of a certain age taking time and trouble to carefully plough a marked area of soil.

Their tools of choice ranged from heavy horses to two wheel tractors and small tracked vehicles to vintage tractors of all types and sizes from the last century.

It is good to know that an event such as this is so well supported by the public but also by a very large number of participants who between them have hundreds if not thousands of years of knowledge and experience.

In addition to the Ploughing match, there was also (what was referred to verbally although not in signage) as the Women's section, where various arts, crafts, and culinary exhibits were on display, including a very well supported selection of children's exhibits.

There was also a full catering service, but not just the hot dogs and burgers (although these were available) but a full sit down carvery dinner.

This annual event (weather permitting) is one to look out for.

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