I’ve been really impressed by the number of local events moving online in recent months, refusing to let lockdown spoil the fun. However, plans for the Virtual Hurst Show are taking the idea to a whole new level! Normally the Hurst Show and Country Fayre is held over the last weekend of June, raising tens of thousands of pounds for local good causes.
Organisers have been coming up with ingenious ways to enable several of the key attractions to go ahead in modified form, whether online or through real-life, socially distanced treats. The ideas have been gaining a good level of engagement from the local community, with residents keen to join in and support Hurst Show’s fundraising efforts.
For more details read the information below, received from the hard-working organising committee. (Highlighted words provide direct links through to the event or organisation shown.)
Everyone is invited to take part in online and socially distanced events all through June, culminating in what would have been the show weekend, June 27 and 28.
Show Chairperson Suzy Turner explains: ‘More than ever, local good causes are struggling for funding.
‘We have kicked off the fundraising with a £5,000 donation from show funds and hope to raise £10,000 more through the virtual show. We aim for everyone to have some fun and celebrate the fantastic community spirit shown during lockdown.’
Events taking place include:
- Hobby horse competition – Households can make and display their own hobby horses, with online voting and the winner judged by BBC sports presenter, Mike Bushell.
- Virtual classic vehicle and dog shows – enter your “Pride and Joy”, whether it has wheels or a waggy tail, into the relevant competition on Facebook and encourage friends to vote for your entry.
- Virtual market – browse the online shops of stallholders who regularly support the show.
- Village Souvenir Magazine – a magazine kindly produced by Alexis Jaworski Photography capturing photographs and memories of community spirit. Sponsorship opportunities are available.
Over the show weekend, interactive events will take place on Facebook, including sing-a-longs with Ukuladies Plus One and a virtual session with Just Around the Corner.
Around Hurst, there will be displays of art, the church bookstall and Jackie and Malcolm Phillips’ plant stall. An ice cream van will tour. Visitors must of course observe social distancing measures. There’s an online disco on the Saturday night by Thames Valley Discos.
Hurst caterers, The Castle Inn and Vintage Hog Roast, are providing paella and also hog roast rolls with extras. The ordering hotline is 07516 306505, for pick up from the pub, noon to 6pm on both days. There will be a beers, cider and ale collection and drive through service. For details: @vintagehogroast.
Most events are free, but donations towards the show are kindly requested by visiting www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/hurst-show. For the latest details of what’s on, or to get involved as a sponsor or stallholder, follow the Hurst Show Facebook page, Twitter and/or Instagram, or visit www.hurstshow.uk.
