Show chiefs hail the stars and stalwarts of the farming world

FROM stalwarts of the show circuit to rising stars of veterinary medicine, the opening of the 160th Bath and West Show was marked by a celebration of long service, rural community achievement and promising future talent.

- LEWIS CLARKE

In a ceremony held on the main lawn, honorary show director Rupert Uloth paid tribute to individuals whose lifelong contributions to farming and the show itself were recognised with the Long Service Awards. These included Mike Bethell, Ann and Geoff Groves, Will Bougourd, Keith Selway, David Carpenter, Paul Murray, Graham Rolls and Mike Gray.

“We are celebrating often the unsung heroes of the farming industry as well as people who have spent a long time in service for the Bath and West Show,” said Rupert.

Among those recognised were Ann and Geoff Groves, a couple synonymous with livestock and the show’s operations. Originally involved with the Young Farmers section, they later moved into the sheep section and eventually ran the stock office for both the Bath and West Show and the Dairy Show. Geoff was also responsible for maintaining the milking parlour.

“Between them, their knowledge of helping to run the livestock section is invaluable,” Rupert added.