Newport Show has been named the Best Rural or Farming Event of the Year at the inaugural Farmer Rural Awards.
The awards – run by the Shropshire Star and its sister publication The Farmer – drew nearly 200 people to Shrewsbury Town Football club for a gala dinner which saw the winners of 11 hotly-contested categories announced – with around 50 businesses and organisations among those competing for awards
Shropshire Star Editor Mark Drew said: “These awards honour the remarkable contributions that sustain rural life across our region.
“Whether it’s a farm shop championing local produce, a rural event bringing communities together, a sustainable initiative protecting our environment, or a farm stay offering a glimpse into country living - each category reflects the diversity, ingenuity and heart of our rural landscape.”
Winners were drawn from across the region, with Newport Show represented on the night by show manager Sally Western, Emma Haselwood (sponsorship) and Martyn Fallows (park warden).
Sally said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be named the Best Rural Event of the Year – particularly as there were so many other brilliant events shortlisted.
“Putting on an event like the Newport Show really does draw on the skills of a whole community – we depend on the support of our local businesses and agri-businesses, as well as our sponsors, acts and so much more.
“We also have more than 200 volunteers who work to bring things together, both in the run up and on show day itself. We’d like to dedicate this award to everyone whose work means we can put on such a great day every year, and, of course, to our visitors – who make the event such a success.”
The award-winning Newport Show is set to return next year on Saturday, July 11 – for more information like the Newport Show Facebook page or visit www.newportshow.co.uk
