Punch and Judy at Stroud's 'Country Show'

Woodpeckers and I went to the Stroud Show in Stratford Park, just outside the town centre with high hopes. Sadly the show had less of our favourite things, the activities which used to make it an attraction for country people who always would come in from the Five Valleys. It was more of a glorified market with the usual dull stalls, bric-a-brac, charity membership pitches and bouncy castles. There were a couple of old classic cars and a single steam traction engine, but only one fenced compound with three rare Cotswold sheep. Previously I've blipped the judging of bulls, sheep and goats. 

Apparently the people who've organised in recent years had run out of steam by last year and decided they couldn't manage it again. A group of five people took up the challenge and have at least made a go of it, but it has lost its soul. Maybe with the experience of this year they can seek to bring back the essence of the 'Country' aspect to such a show.

We went to the real ale tent where Stroud Brewery were selling their organic ale and some organic cider which we enjoyed. On the wazy to their tent we passed the Punch and Judy Show which was keeping young and old amused.