Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Show

š The Kilmacolm & Port Glasgow Agricultural Show: From Heritage to Harvest!
Why settle for ordinary events when you can experience nearly two centuries of agricultural tradition at the Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Show? This isnāt just any country fairāitās a vibrant celebration of local farming excellence thatās been bringing communities together since 1835! šš
š°ļø A Rich History That Grows With Time!
Established way back in 1835, this incredible agricultural show has survived through wars, disease outbreaks, and even pandemic restrictions! Can you believe the first known accounts from 1842 show there were just 20 classes with an income of Ā£21.3.0? Talk about humble beginnings for whatās now become the 190th celebration of local agriculture!
The show has evolved beautifully over the decades:
- 1894: The Homecraft (Industrial) Section made its debutāthink local āBake Offā meets āSewing Beeā!
- 1923: Our four-legged friends joined the party when the Dog Section was introduced
- 1935: Light Horse classes trotted into the schedule
- 1953: The show found its forever home at the beautiful Knapps Loch, where it continues to thrive
Clydesdales were once the stars of the show until the 1950s when tractors started taking over farm work. But these gentle giants have made a magnificent comebackāproving that some traditions are just too wonderful to leave behind!
š 2025 Show Results: Fresh From The Field!
The 2025 Kilmacolm Show delivered spectacular competitions across all categories! Here are some highlights that had everyone talking:
š¶ Dog Section
Who could resist those wagging tails and hopeful eyes? Class 14 crowned Teddy the Labradoodle (owned by Ella Carter) as having the waggiest tail, while Roo the Labradoodle (owned by Jane McCourt) was the dog the judge would most like to take home! Talk about canine charm!
š“ Cross Country Champions
The Cross Country competition was absolutely thrilling! In the Lead Rein category, Isabel Miller took first place with a perfect run (0 faults in just 0.50m), while Sophie Oxnard claimed the 30cm Junior trophy with an impressive performance. For the senior categories, Adrie Morgan dominated with wins in both the 30cm and 50cm classesātalk about versatility!
š Sheep Champions
The sheep competition was fiercely contested with Richard Close taking the Supreme Sheep Champion title and A & C Paterson securing Reserve Sheep Champion. These farmers really know how to raise the best woolly wonders!
š Special Recognition
The 2025 Linburn Trophy was awarded to Norrie Johnstone, celebrating his incredible 30th year of driving the Showās Shuttle Bus! Now thatās what you call dedication to the community!
š± Community Significance: More Than Just a Show!
The Kilmacolm Show isnāt just about competitionsāitās the beating heart of local tradition and community spirit! This registered charity (SC003709) brings together people from all walks of life, with most visitors having no direct links to agriculture.
What makes this show so special? Itās a fantastic family day out that:
- Promotes local agriculture, outdoor sports, arts, crafts, baking, and community spirit
- Educates visitors on agriculture, countryside awareness, local history, and environmental issues
- Supports local businesses and brings trade to the surrounding area
- Relies on an incredible team of volunteers who put in around 3,000 hours annually!
The 2025 show (the 190th edition!) featured entertainment that had everyone smilingāSt Columbaās School Pipe Band, the May Hughes School of Dance, dry stone walling demonstrations, vintage tractors, and the wildly popular hobby horse races! Where else can you find such a perfect blend of tradition and fun?
š Recent Developments: Fresh Ideas Meet Tradition!
The show continues to evolve while honoring its roots! Recent additions that have breathed new life into this historic event include:
- The Knapps Experience: An educational area where visitors can learn about animals, plants, countryside and local heritageāeven try milking a model cow!
- A brand new stage showcasing local talent including Clyde Coast Radio and dance performances
- Free treasure hunts and games that get the whole family involved
- The famous āKnappieā cross-country jump that became a social media sensation
With over 600 entries in the industrial section and competitors traveling from across Scotland to participate, the showās popularity continues to grow year after year! From Glasgow to Rothesay, Lanark to Argyllāpeople just canāt stay away from this celebration of rural excellence!
š Why It Matters: Supporting Local, Celebrating Excellence!
At its heart, the Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Agricultural Show champions the best of local agricultureābecause great food deserves a great story! The show has weathered world wars, disease outbreaks, and even a pandemic to keep this tradition alive for nearly two centuries.
Whether youāre a farmer, a foodie, or just looking for a fantastic day out, this show delivers something special that you simply wonāt find anywhere else. Fresh, seasonal, and straight from the fieldsājust the way nature intended!
Support local. Celebrate tradition. Love your community. šš