Sheep shearing showdown expected at Shipston’s Wool Fair

Speedy sheep shearing is just one of many attractions scheduled for this year’s Wool Fair which takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, 26th May.

One of the town’s leading annual events, the Shipston Wool Fair is set to be packed, once again, with a variety of entertainment to suit all tastes. With more emphasis on rare breeds, over 20 breeds of sheep will be on display in the High Street. As well as the traditional sheep shearing, individual sheep will be paraded in traditional fashion around a small show ring, allowing visitors to learn more about each breed.

Another big highlight of the event will be the final reveal of the Shipston Tapestry, which weavers and volunteers are busily completing as the Forum went to press.  The tapestry project was launched two years ago and is designed to depict some of Shipston’s most famous landmarks. A true community project, local people and community groups have been involved in weaving the cloth.

For the first time, the Wool Fair will also offer the chance to take a close look at a Shepherd’s Hut. Traditionally designed as a comfortable vantage point for shepherds watching their flocks, shepherds’ huts have seen a revival in recent years – and a visit to the one at the Wool Fair will demonstrate why!

Throughout the day, there will be plenty of stalls offering a mixture of retail therapy, games and competitions. Refreshments will be provided both by stallholders and local traders, while entertainment will include local singing and dance groups as well as former entrants to the Shipston Fame Contest.

Mayor, Ronnie Murphy, said “I am really excited about this year’s Wool Fair. We’ve made changes to the layout and attractions which really make the most of our town’s heritage as a ‘Sheep Wash’ town and I’m sure the day will prove even more popular than last year’s record turnout.”

 

Photo by Philip Vial