Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE, Member of Parliament for Skipton and Ripon, visited the Nidderdale Show on Sunday, 21 September, to celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage.
Held in the scenic surrounds of Bewerley Park, Pateley Bridge, the Nidderdale Show is one of Yorkshire’s most cherished agricultural events. Attracting over 15,000 visitors annually, it marks the end of the agricultural show season and showcases the very best of rural life, from livestock and produce to crafts and countryside traditions.
During his visit, Julian was joined by fellow Yorkshire MP and Shadow Minister for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Robbie Moore, with both MPs touring the show, meeting residents, farmers, producers, and exhibitors. Highlights of the show included livestock competitions, Young Farmers’ and Junior Shepherd contests, dry stone walling and vintage tractors. Julian also met with Wharfedale division Councillor Richard Foster and Settle & Penyghent division Councillor David Staveley.
The event had over 170 trade stands, heritage and craft marquees, and live music.
Speaking after the event, Julian said, “It was fantastic to visit the Nidderdale Show to meet with local Conservative councillors, and attendees from across our agricultural sector in North Yorkshire. Agriculture is the backbone of our rural communities and events like this are vital for the livelihoods of local families.
"Labour’s family farm tax is a threat to the future of rural areas, and alongside Robbie and other colleagues I will keep pressing the Government to change these policies at the next Budget. The Government needs to make sure farmers are able to move forward, produce the food this country needs and have confidence in the years ahead."
This visit follow's Julian' recent visit to Craven Cattle Mart to speak with farmers and auction mart staff about their concerns about market pressures, changes to grant schemes and inheritance tax and access to capital for investment.
