Co-op to be new main sponsor

Pictured: Mike Warden, Chairman of the Wensleydale Show, with Jonathan Barker, Manager of the Leyburn Cooperative branch

Wensleydale Show has unveiled a new main sponsor.

The Cooperative has announced plans to become a sponsor of the Leyburn based Wensleydale Agricultural Show.  Having been going since 1892, with two temporary interruptions for world wars, it is one of the largest one-day events in the Dales, attracting several thousand visitors.  Although a traditional agricultural show, it always features up-to-date and top-class family entertainment; this year top billing goes to: The West Lancs Dog Display Team and Black Watch London Pipes & Drums.

Show Chairman Mike Warden said: “I am delighted that the Cooperative have become our main sponsor; it is important as it compounds the relationship we both have with the local farming community.”
A supporter and regular entrant at the show since boyhood, local branch manager of the Cooperative Jonathan Barker was keen to cement the deal.  He said: “Our ethics fit with those of the Wensleydale Show; we support local farmers and businesses.

“When I am at the show many of our suppliers are there too such as Wensleydale Creamery and Brymor Ice Cream. ”

The Cooperative also intend to sponsor a trophy and there is already a class in the schedule for a cake made from the Cooperative’s cook book.  The deal however won’t curry any flavour with the steely-hearted judges for Mr Barker who is rather coy about his own entries for this year’s show.

The show takes place on Saturday August 25, 9.30-5.30pm; the site is well signposted and has free parking.  A free shuttle bus travels to and from Leyburn and the showground; the postcode is DL8 5JG.