Devon County Show - Fabulous start to Devon's big day out

Never mind the X Factor, the 2011 Devon County Show has the S Factor – glorious sunshine and lots of it to greet the start of this year’s big event.
It’s the magic ingredient for one of the biggest and most popular events on the county calendar.

It really is Devon’s big day out and visitors have been flocking to the Westpoint showground since the gates opened early this morning.

“It’s been a fantastic  start  to what promises to be another memorable Devon County Show. We couldn’t have asked for a better opening and judging by the number of people here today, we’re set for a bumper year,” said Show Secretary Ollie Allen.

The Show runs for three days and don’t forget, kids go free on Saturday.

As usual there’s a packed programme of events and exhibits.

There are thousands of magnificent animals – everything from big bulls to tiny bees – scrumptious food and drink – don’t miss the giant 8ft Devon cream tea scone – the fragrant flower and garden marquee, inspiring crafts – more than ever before – and non-stop entertainment.

And it’s lights, camera, action all the way at this year’s show with lots of national TV programmes getting involved.

There’s Kirstie Allsopp and Channel 4, Adam Henson from BBC 1’s Countryfile, Aled Jones on BBC’s Escape to the Country, not to mention BBC1’s Big Food Fight. Even Big Brother wants to get a look in as it begins the search for new contestants!

There's lots of entertainment in six rings throughout the showground, each with its own timed programme of events.
Look out for the dazzling Bolddog Lings motorcycle display team performing in the Sainsbury’s arena.

Prepare to be thrilled by the James Bond-style 'For Your Eyes Only' paramotor display team! They’ll be dropping from the air in an extraordinary display usually only seen on spy films. (By the way, paramotors are powered parachutists). They are performing today and tomorrow.

There’s competitive sporting action with a Rugby Sevens Tournament. Come and cheer your favourite team! Games are scheduled for today and Saturday.
Comedy robot Titan will be entertaining visitors in the avenues with his hilarious routine of music, slap-stick and comedy. Watch out for him today and tomorrow.

But for many visitors, the animals are the big attraction of the show and they don’t come with more star quality than the Devon cattle, otherwise known as Red Rubies. We're hosting the breed's prestigious national show featuring more than a 100 of these wonderful animals including the magnificent Ferdinand, our reigning champion. He’s not to be missed.

And, do watch The Grand Parade of Livestock! It features the very best of the best and is held on Friday and Saturday afternoons in the Sainsbury’s arena.

The showground is open by 8.00am each day. Trade stands and features open from 9.00am until 6.30pm.  Credit card facilities are available at Brown, Green, White and Yellow entrances