GALLERY: Record attendance as sun shines on Lincolnshire's countryside show 2024

And the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society (LAS) has announced a record-breaking attendance at its annual event.

Nearly 7,000 people from across Lincolnshire and beyond came to the event, which educates young minds about food and agriculture in the region.

Held at the heart of the Lincolnshire Showground on Sunday April 14, this year’s Countryside Lincs surpassed all previous records, with families, farmers and floral enthusiasts experiencing the rich tapestry of rural heritage and agricultural innovation showcased throughout the event.

Rosie Crust, Head of Charity at the LAS, said: “We were thrilled to see such overwhelming support for Countryside Lincs this year. This remarkable turnout underscores the enduring appeal of our event and the deep-rooted connection people have with the countryside and agriculture. It's truly a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and exhibitors.”

Countryside Lincs offers a diverse range of activities and attractions catering to all ages and interests - from interactive farmyard experiences to educational workshops where children can learn more about food and where it comes from.

Key highlights of this year’s event included:

Outdoor activities: From tractor rides to Easter egg trails, attendees immersed themselves in the beauty of the Lincolnshire countryside, exploring the different zones in the sunny weather.

Farmyard friends: Families enjoyed up-close encounters with farm animals, including sheep, cows, pigs and chickens, fostering a deeper understanding of where our food comes from.

Hands-on workshops: Children took part in educational sessions and demonstrations on topics such as baking, floral workshops and traditional crafts, providing valuable insights into sustainable living and rural skills.

Food and drink delights: Visitors indulged in a delicious array of locally sourced produce and refreshing beverages, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Lincolnshire.

This year’s event was bigger than ever, with a brand-new Floral Art and Design Show to celebrate the arrival of spring with the North Midlands Area of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies putting on beautiful flower displays with the theme of ‘Joy’.

There were also alpaca walks, tractor and trailer rides, archery, circus skills, animal petting and sheep shearing demonstrations, plus youngsters could get up close with the East Lincolnshire Basset Hounds and join in cookery demonstrations.

The success of Countryside Lincs underscores the LAS’ commitment to promoting agriculture, education and rural life within the community.

All funds raised through ticket sales are invested in charity works, including the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society Education Programme.

Preparations are now well underway for the LAS’ flagship event, the Lincolnshire Show 2024, which will be held on June 19 and 20.

The event, which is recognised as “Lincolnshire’s biggest day out”, is set to attract around 60,000 people, along with 2,500 animals and 500 traders or exhibitors, making it one of the most anticipated events in the region and an action-packed day out for all the family.

This year’s Lincolnshire Show will see the return of many of the highlights from Countryside Lincs and much, much more. This includes a new Garden Show, as well as zones dedicated to aviation, discovery, sports, food, machinery and shopping, while farmers across the county show their best produce and livestock.

You can get your advance tickets by visiting the agricultural society’s dedicated website: https://lincolnshireshow.co.uk/

For more information about Countryside Lincs and other upcoming events hosted by the LAS, visit www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk or call 01522 522900.