Agricultural society reveals date for annual ploughing match and show in West Grinstead

The society said the event is taking place at Fairoak Farm and Buncton Manor Farm in Wiston, near Steyning.

Organisers said it offers ‘a great rural day out for all the family’ and said it is kindly hosted by John Goring and the Wiston Estate.

A spokesperson said: “The society, established in 1871, has been holding shows for over 150 years and is very pro-active in promoting the interests of the local farming community, including holding an extensive range of field competitions through the year.

“The winners of the Best Farmed Farms this year were W.D. Passmore & Sons at Applesham Farm, Coombes, near Lancing (farms over 500 acres), and Liverton Partners of Goffsland Farm, Shipley (farms under 500 acres). The D & C Harriott of Lychpole Farm, Sompting, won the Farm Diversification Class for their pumpkin picking patch. The winner of the Best Whole Farm Conservation Policy was W.D. Passmore & Sons at Applesham Farm. The society is pleased to continue its bursary scheme, assisting candidates working or living in the society’s area and keen to pursue a career in agriculture or associated industries. The 2025 recipient was Brendon Harrison with help towards a farm machinery course at Plumpton College.

“In addition to the 12 different ploughing classes, including novice and open, horse ploughing, there will also be a demonstration again of steam ploughing with some massive engines at work.”

The society said there will also be hedge-laying, hedge-cutting and welding competitions. The livestock show will feature a range of sheep classes, including lamb-handling classes, with the future generation of farmers taking part, and a cattle display. The society said other rural based attractions will include the parade of hounds from the Crawley and Horsham Hunt, terrier racing, a falconry display and the Utility Gundog Society scurry.

The society spokesperson said: “There are the field produce competitions with entries being later auctioned for the society’s funds and the domestic produce stall with its delicious range of home-cooked cakes. Numerous other side shows include a tug-of-war, a sheep shearing demonstration and a tractor and plough parade. The emphasis is on entertainment for the whole family and education in farming and country life, including complimentary tractor and trailer rides around the show. There will also be the ever-popular Harris Fun Fair with its classic rides.

“There are excellent catering facilities, a licensed bar with numerous local beers, many trade stands and demonstrations and the annual raffle, which is usually a sell-out with its many prizes.”

Entry is £10 per adult on the day or £8 in advance from www.westgrinsteadploughing.co.uk. Children under 14 can get in for free.