There’s a new committee in charge of organising the Stroud Show and they have reaffirmed their desire to making the event one that children can enjoy.

As well as all the traditional events, this year’s show will feature a host of new activities for the younger generation to enjoy. Wendy Fabbro, who chairs a small team of volunteers who organise the Stroud Show, says the 2018 event, which takes place on 21st July will be a day the whole family can enjoy, especially children. She said: “We were aware that last year’s show didn’t have a great deal on for young people, so we’ve worked very hard to create a number of events to keep them entertained.

“We’re delighted to confirm that the Stroud Show will be free of charge again. There’s so much for children to enjoy at this year’s show, from circus skill workshops, art competitions, face painting, fairground rides and animals for the children to see. This year we’ve also invited all young musicians to enter a ‘battle of the bands’ competition. The winning act will get to appear on BBC Radio Gloucestershire which I’m sure will encourage plenty of interest.”

Wendy has only been involved in the show for six months but she, along with her team of committee members, have worked assiduously to ensure the 2018 show will provide entertainment for people of all ages. She continued: “We’re a brand-new committee, none of us have done this before. We were elected in February and we’ve been working hard in the lead-up to the Stroud Show. A lot of the big festivals in the area have full-time staff. Doing the same job with five volunteers is quite a challenge.

“We’ve worked very hard to combine the traditional aspects of the show while introducing a whole new programme of events for everyone to enjoy. Our main aim is to create a great family day out that’s a celebration of all the wonderfully talented artists, craft workers and all the suppliers of local produce.

“We have a very detailed schedule of competitions ranging from photography competitions through to craft and pottery. This year we’re really pleased to be running a patchwork and quilting competition for the very first time. That’s my own personal hobby, so I’m excited about that one.

“The theme for this year’s show is ‘My Stroud Is’. We chose that because we had conversations with the former committee and we concluded that many people had various ideas of what our town was all about. For some of us it’s about the art scene, others focus on all the great local food suppliers, and many acknowledge the crucial role music plays in the community. The theme of ‘My Stroud Is’ represents what’s great about the Stroud Valley and all the people who contribute to our community.”

Animals have always played a key role in the Stroud Show and this year’s event is no exception. Wendy added: “There will be a dog show so please do bring your dogs along. They’re not serious pedigree competitions, bring your pets and enter them in the various fun categories, you might well walk away with a prize.”