Llanbister Show enjoyed a welcome return to form this year as sunshine replaced the storms that disrupted last year’s event.

12 months on from battling heavy rain and damaged marquees, the Bank Holiday Monday show was held in warm, dry weather - with organisers celebrating successful show after a difficult 2025.

Concerns were raised in the run-up to the event after an Equine Influenza alert threatened to impact the horse and show jumping classes. However, the competitions went ahead after extra biosecurity measures were introduced, including checks on vaccination passports on the day.

Equine classes were cleared to go ahead with extra precautions in place due to an Equine Influenza alert
Equine classes were cleared to go ahead with extra safety measures in place due to an Equine Influenza alert (.)

The show was officially opened in traditional style by Llandrindod Town Crier Jan Swindale, who gave the customary “Oyez” call in full regalia, complete with handbell. She was joined by a Welsh dragon for the ceremony, following an opening performance from Llandrindod Silver Band.

This year’s joint presidents, Margaret and James Grieve, delivered the keynote address alongside the Prince and Princess of Llanbister – chosen at a children’s disco the previous Friday – and show chairman Geoff Morgan.

Entertainment continued throughout the afternoon, with performances from the Silver Band alternating with sets from young local singer Rhian Hughes.

One of the most talked-about attractions was a demonstration of Flyball dog agility. The fast-paced relay-style event drew plenty of interest, with organisers amusingly explaining the sport in advance through a human demonstration.

Four-legged competitors took centre stage at Llanbister
Four-legged competitors took centre stage at Llanbister (.)

Younger visitors were also kept busy with Revvi Bike races, where children took part in electric bike events around a small course, leaning into corners like seasoned riders.

Young riders take on the Revvi Bike course
Young riders take on the Revvi Bike course (.)

The family area proved popular throughout the day, with bouncy castles and outdoor games well used in the sunshine. Stalls, a tombola run for the first time by the Llanbister Best Kept Village group, and the traditional raffle all drew steady crowds.

Food and refreshments were in high demand, with visitors heading to the tea tent and bar run by Cantal YFC, which offered cakes, sandwiches and barbecue food.

While most sections saw strong entries, organisers noted a drop in submissions for art and photography. There were also fewer entries in the small animal “Fur and Friends” class, with some pets kept away due to the heat. Even so, the dog show still went ahead with nine classes and a championship round.

The pig section attracted a solid turnout, with breeds including Duroc, Saddleback and Large Black. Supreme champion was Dave Lang with sow Polly Constance, while Reserve Champion went to Morgan Halliday with Duroc July, gilt.

Cooling off in style - pigs taking a well-earned lie-down in the shade
Cooling off in style - pigs taking a well-earned lie-down in the shade (.)

The sheep section recorded 59 entries and 12 young handlers, with James Price winning the “Guess the Weight” competition. Judges Andy Jones and Arwyn Griffiths were thanked for their hard work.

The sheep section saw 59 entries
The sheep section saw 59 entries (.)

Speed shearing, held on Sunday evening at Cefn Bronllys, was won by Joseph Hughes.

Shear speed in action as competitors race the clock
Shear speed in action as competitors race the clock (.)

Full results from the horse and show jumping classes, along with the car treasure hunt, will be published on the Llanbister Show Facebook page.

The Show Committee has thanked all of the participants, supporters and visitors for helping make it such a successful day.