STANDING over 30m high, the two iconic climbing poles in the middle of the forestry section of the Royal Welsh Showground are hard to miss.

One of the most popular contests at the show, the pole-climbing requires nerves of steel along with an amazing amount of strength and agility. The competitors battle against each other, and the clock, to see how quickly they can reach the top. However, it is important for the safety of the climbers and integrity of the competitions for the poles to be kept in tip-top condition and changed when necessary.

The current poles have been in situ since 2009 and over the last few days, the show organisers have been replacing them in time for this year’s show – a logistical task which required plenty of preparation and hard work.

Two huge Douglas Fir trees from a Natural Resources Wales-managed forest near Pantperthog, Machynlleth, were felled with the support of Tillhill Forestry. And just getting them to the showground required military-style planning.

The journey from Pantperthog to the Royal Welsh Show forestry section was a huge logistical challenge, which involved Natural Resources Wales, Dyfed Powys Police and the Highways Agency all pulling together.

Starting early on the morning of Sunday, June 25, the new poles were loaded onto an articulated, rear-steer lorry and driven the 90-plus miles from the forest to Llanelwedd by Kieron M Owen Transport Ltd, along with a full abnormal-load police entourage.

Once at the showground, the poles were ready for the next part of the challenge where they were hoisted into position with an enormous crane from Davies Crane Hire and buried 5m into the ground with the help of JA Morgan Groundworks, before finally being secured into place with a series of tension wires.

“For many, the sight of the climbing poles is synonymous with the Royal Welsh Show,” said honorary assistant director for Forestry Iwan Lloyd-Williams. “The crowds always flock to watch the climbers in action throughout the week and we are always thrilled with the calibre of contestants competing in our competitions.

“It is vital that we ensure the best possible conditions for our competitors and have pulled out all the stops to make sure the poles get replaced ready for another exciting four-days of events at this year’s show.

“We would like to extend our thanks to all the other organisations and contractors who have helped to make this possible.”