A popular Dorset country show has extended its opening hours and will have late night entertainment for visitors.
This year’s Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show is offering visitors even longer to enjoy their rural day out.
The show which starts on Wednesday, August 14 until Thursday, August 15, will now be open until 10.30pm on the Wednesday.
It is organised by the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Society and will take place at the Turnpike Showground in Motcombe.
READ: Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show to return for 2024
The line-up includes livestock parades, agricultural and countryside exhibits, equestrian events, vintage machinery and cars, steam engines and a funfair.
After the main show closes at 6pm, visitors with a day ticket can now stay into the evening to enjoy live music from a host of local bands.
The line-up includes Fair Play, who will be offering a medley of funk, soul, pop and disco for revellers to enjoy.
For those who enjoy something a bit heavier, Big Brass Ska will be performing songs made famous by Bad Manners, Madness and The Specials.
There will also be the lively Mustang Sally to keep the party atmosphere going.
Pop-up street food and a fully licensed bar will also continue to serve punters into the evening.
From 3pm there will be a special entrance rate on the Wednesday of £10 for adults or £24 for a family ticket.
Show organiser Cat Harris said: “There’s always a feel that visitors want to stay longer to relax in the great setting of our showground after their busy day enjoying all the wonderful rural attractions.
"Our extended hours on the Wednesday will allow them to do this and get even more for their money with the bonus of free evening entertainment.”
“We’ve also listened to feedback from people who can’t make the whole day due to work or other commitments so giving afternoon access to the showground at a reduced price seems the perfect scenario.”
During the day there will also be a visit from Joseph’s Amazing Camels, which were featured in films such as Nativity, the 2017 live adaption of Aladdin and Death on the Nile.
There will also be a horticulture marquee which welcomes over 1500 entries including flowers, vegetables and cookery.
A selection locally produced cheese, cake, cider, coffee, flapjacks and gin will also be on offer for visitors to enjoy.
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