Weald of Kent Ploughing Match
Visit our stand at the annual Weald of Kent Ploughing Match, which takes place on Saturday 15 September 2018 at Four Oaks Farm, Plumtree Road, Headcorn TN27 9PB. Gates open 9am to 7pm with free car parking. Entry costs £5 adults and under 16s go free.
In addition to the vintage, steam-ploughs, horse-ploughing and nine conventional ploughing classes, there is a full range of activities for all ages to participate in, including:
- Gymkhana – classes for children aged up to 14 including showing classes, show jumping, fancy dress and novelty classes for young or novice riders.
- Fun dog show with classes for all shapes and sizes.
- Dog agility competition with classes for all sized dogs both new to and experienced at agility, plus have a go fun agility.
- Clay shoot competition with six classes.
In the main show ring, there is a full programme of events to entertain spectators throughout the day including:
- Birds of Prey flying display;
- Tossing the Sheaf competition, open to all visitors;
- Hounds and Beagles parades;
- Gun Dog demonstration;
- Scurry competitions;
- Terrier Racing; and
- Tug-of-War.
For food and drink lovers there is a large farmers market to browse, with around 35 local producers selling a range of delicious produce and gifts.
The Gullands’ stand can be found as part of the extensive trade show with around 80 stands, bar area and catering.
The Weald of Kent Ploughing Match is broken down into three different areas. The first part of the match has already been judged, with a comprehensive crop growing competition. The second part is the ploughing competitions on the day, followed in November, the final part of the show, the Hop competition, where challenge cups and the best hopped ale in Kent competition is held. Hops are judged on freedom of pest and disease, colour, maturity, wholeness of cone and their aroma. Brewers from Kent are invited to enter beers into the competition that use hops from Kent Growers.
James Forknall, Chairman of the Weald of Kent Ploughing Match Association, organisers of the match comments: “This is an important event in the Weald of Kent farming diary, which brings the rural community together and celebrates growing the best crops and hops. It is also an important event as it raises money for local and national charities each year. So, come along and enjoy a great family day out in the beautiful surroundings of the Weald.”
Entries for all classes, (ploughing, gymkhana, dogs and clay shoot) are welcome and details of how to enter and entry dates can be found at www.wkpma.co.uk