The organisers of the British National Ploughing Championships & Country Festival, which is taking place on Saturday and Sunday, 14th & 15th October, are hoping that the sun will shine at the weekend.

This unique event is taking place on land at Bishop’s Lydeard, near Taunton, Somerset by kind permission of K S Coles and family and a record crowd is expected to attend.

Online weather forecasts have been consulted and at the moment it looks like it will be good weather for ploughing a furrow for the ploughmen and women who are travelling to Taunton from all over the country. Over 260 champions will be competing in the Championships using various types of equipment – modern and classic tractors with conventional and reversible ploughs, vintage tractors pulling different kinds of ploughs and the not to be missed heavy horses.

Twenty pairs of these magnificent animals will be showing off their skills, reminding us of a much slower pace in life and in contrast, local and national companies will be showing us the latest equipment available for farmers today.

With all this, plus giant steam ploughing engines, rural vintage displays, trade stands, shopping and crafts, it promises a great day out for the family which won’t be repeated in the area for some time as the Championships move around the country each year.

Sue Frith, Chief Executive of the Society of Ploughmen who are organising the event, said, “Everyone, young and old, can have an enjoyable day without having to be interested in the actual ploughing competitions! Farmers come to see the agricultural machinery and ploughing; grandparents come because they remember horses or vintage tractors working on farmers in their youth and children come because it offers a rare chance to see how farming has changed over the last 200 years or so.” She continued, “ We are hoping for good weather, but rain will not stop play – the only difference for spectators would be to bring your wellies!”

The event is easy to find, only 6 miles north of Taunton just off the A358 Minehead Road and to allow children to learn about our farming heritage, children under 11 will be given free entry to the Championships. Further information can be found from the Society of Ploughmen on www.ploughmen.co.uk or on Facebook and twitter.