Show Time

We went to the Border Union Agricultural Show today.

Despite living in the country, we don't really know much about farming. Those ranks of enormous machines, glowing like giant children's toys straight out of the box - what are they all for? I have a vague idea ...

Pens of cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, - so many different breeds, and all groomed like red-carpet celebrities, to parade in front of the judges. I can't tell a winner from one that doesn't make the grade.

And horses of course - they, and their riders, are really turned out to perfection. You have to admire the effort that goes in.

Then there's vintage tractors, terrier racing, the pipe band, the instrumental band, the 'Imps' (that's them in the extra), and the Sheep Show, a cross between a shearing demonstration and a cabaret. (Another extra). And much, much more.

Even though I haven't a clue about most of it, I love an Agricultural Show. There's such a buzz, chance meetings, kids racing around, burger stands and ice-cream vans, the smell of crushed grass, the way everyone rushes into the tents when the rain starts. 

The cockerel in the picture does not look impressed by the red rosette he won. Still, he'll be back strutting round the farm by now.