Bandstand to Mark Birthday

Plans to celebrate the Newport Show's 100th anniversary have started early with a new bandstand set to be unveiled at this year's event on July 19. Volunteers are working flat out to have the oak-clad structure ready for the show – the 99th to be staged in the stunning grounds of Chetwynd Deer Park. Farmer Peter Williamson, a member of the show committee for 25 years, built the internal steel structure which was transported to Venables Brothers' Chipnall Sawmill at Cheswardine for the cladding work to begin next week. Mr Williamson said: "The idea of having a bandstand has been on our minds for a long while and with the centenary round the corner we decided to push ahead. "Jazz and Calypso bands are already booked for the show and the aim is to invite other local bands to perform on the day so visitors have a non-stop programme of musical entertainment taking place." The stand is being jointly funded by the show and Paul and Chuck Venables who specialise in the supply of European hardwoods. Nearer the show date it will be transported in three sections by HGV to the showground. Mr Williamson added: "Venables has been very generous in the supplying the wood and other materials for the stand which will be an attractive feature in the park and will blend well with the countryside setting. "One idea we have in mind to help recover costs is to offer local people the chance to buy plagues which will be placed round the bandstand in memory of their loved ones." Paul Venables said: "We have been going to the show as exhibitors since 1999 and just think it is a great day out. Helping with the bandstand project is our way of giving something back to the event." Show president, Di Stubbs, will officially unveil the bandstand on show day when main ring attractions will include The Knights of Middle England in a spectacular jousting match, the Horse of the Year Show and Shire Horse Championship Qualifier, a vintage tractor parade, and Whitchurch Dog Display Team.