Dunsford Village Show set to return!
The show has everything that makes a English country show special
Dunsford Village Show is set to arrive once again this year on June 29, marking another chapter in the show’s history.
The show will take place from 12pm to 5pm.
Since its inception in the late 1990s, this event has grown from humble beginnings as a school fete to become a cornerstone of community life in Dunsford.
Organisers believe the show transitioned from a smaller fete-style format within the school grounds to its current expansive setup in 1995 to fundraise for the Dunsford School Pool.
Shirley Hodge, the then-chairperson of the Dunsford School PTA, recalls the pivotal decision to relocate the event to Teign Park field.
She said: “I felt we had to expand our fundraising efforts in order to raise much needed money for the building of the new swimming pool. It was a comparatively simple occasion back then and has now evolved into the professional Dunsford Summer Show it is today. It was also quite a gamble to venture from the safety of the school playground. Of course pupil numbers were a lot lower and we relied heavily on the support of the whole community as well as parents.”
Reflecting on the challenges faced during those early years, Shirley fondly remembers the community's resourcefulness.
She said “One thing I do remember is that our local electrician, who lived opposite the show field, came to our rescue by running a single cable from his home to the field across the main road! Something we wouldn’t dream of doing today.”
This year's event promises a spectacular lineup of attractions that cater to all interests. Spectators can look forward to Wardour Garrison's interactive historical demonstrations, Dangerous Steve's thrilling bike stunts, and the elegance of the Dartmoor Hill Pony Display Team.
The Taiko South West drumming group will provide rhythmic beats, complemented by a display of vintage and classic cars.
Bubbles the Pixie will add a touch of enchantment, while Dunsford School Maypole dancers and country dancers will showcase their talents alongside vintage game stalls and the highly anticipated Dog Show.
The show is a real community effort with plenty of involvement from local schools and community groups.
Organisers said: “It really is an all hands on deck approach, the PTFA show committee lead the organisation but everyone gets involved from running stalls, setting up marquees, bringing in hay bales, managing parking to baking cakes and making bunting!”
There will also be plenty of refreshments at the show with a tea tent available with homemade cakes and Devonshire cream teas, a BBQ, ice-creams, Pimms and a well-stocked bar.
Locals can expect a wide range of treats at the show with the famous local ales to the community tug-of-war.
There will also be a Grand Draw, featuring prizes like glamping trips, dinners at local restaurants, golf at Bovey Castle, beauty treatments, and family days out at Canonteign Falls.
A spokesperson for the show said: “The Dunsford Village Show is more than just an annual event, it's a tradition that brings the community together. Friends and villagers can catch up over cake or a local ale, celebrate local talent and enjoy the main ring acts. The show really strengthens our community and raises much needed funds for Dunsford School, supporting future generations to come.”
The show takes place in adjacent fields in Dunsford (sat nav: EX6 7ED).
Tickets are available on the gate and cost:
- Adult: £5
- Child: £2 (ages 5 to 16)
- Under 5: Free
- Family ticket: £12 (2 adults and up to 3 children)