Youngsters visiting Staffordshire County Show during half term will have a very messy time in the woodland area at this year’s event.
A mud kitchen will be running for youngsters who aren’t too bothered about whether or not they stay clean and tidy at the show, which will be held at the Showground on Weston Road on May 31 and June 1.
The show is one of the area’s major events on the calendar and is expected to attract more than 65,000 visitors. A huge part of its appeal is the large number of activities on offer across the huge showground and surrounding areas.
As well as main ring entertainment over the two days, the Country Pursuits Area and Woodfest always prove popular with visitors.
Show Secretary Holly Hobson said the mud kitchen in the woodland area proved very successful last year and is back again in 2017 by popular request.
“Not surprisingly the youngsters loved this last year and the mud kitchen produced some great scenes and photo opportunities. It is an ideal adventure for those of a certain age to indulge in interactive messy play,” she said.
“Visitors will also be able to make their own willow wands and see spoon carving demonstrations.
“The show also provides the opportunity to provide information on the developments to the new environmental education centre at Hilton Green and the activities that are on offer there.”
Woodfest, run by Forest of Mercia, takes place in Berryhill, an oak wood at the Stafford end of the Showground. The two-day show is an ideal opportunity to see how this beautiful scenic feature is being restored.
There is also the chance to wander through the woodland trail and take a breather in the wonderful picnic area. Visitors also get the chance to see a professional logger and his horse team in action.
Other attractions in this area over the two days include besom broom, clog and basket making.
Richard Williams, Chief Executive of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society, which runs the Showground, said: “Visitors can see how these traditional crafts from a bygone era are been kept alive by experts.
“There will also be cleaving and post and rail fence demonstrations, a great opportunity to view this precision art at work.
“And if children need more than mud to occupy their time, they can take part in making leaf collages and take rubbings during special sessions.”
Staffordshire County Show takes place on May 31 and June 1. Tickets go on sale at the Showground Office or the website from April 1. For more information about the show visit the website www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk
