Sun shines down on popular Aldermaston & Wasing Show

Unexpected brilliant sunshine greeted the organisers of the 82nd Aldermaston & Wasing Show as they arrived at The Old Mill to set up on Sunday.

The Produce Tent opened at 7.30am, quickly filling with entries across 40 tables – flowers, vegetables, cakes, jams, crafts, photography, limericks, scarecrows, and even vegetable monsters – ready for judging before the crowds arrived.

Meanwhile, the show team worked across two fields preparing the arena, stalls, and attractions for local groups, crafters, food vendors, and fairground rides.

By 1.30pm, the mellow notes of Tadley Concert Brass welcomed visitors as the gates opened, the car park filled, and the show burst into life.

Duck derby races sent a thousand ducks down the mill stream, Mr Muddle's Magical Mayhem drew laughter from young and old, Kassie’s Gundog Training offered handy tips, and Breaking Barriers dancers delighted the crowd with their energy.

“As tradition dictates, the day closed with a lively finale,” said compere and vice chair Chris Boott on behalf of the organising committee.

“Children’s races drew cheers, with little Magic Max running in all four, before nearly 100 contestants braved the egg-throwing chaos to hilarious effect.

“A more sedate prize-giving and grand raffle brought the afternoon to a close just after 5pm.”

Supported by Aldermaston Primary PTA, 1st Aldermaston Scouts and Tadley Elderly Daycare, organisers hope to have raised hundreds of pounds for Newbury Soup Kitchen and West Berkshire Community Hospital, while bringing local groups closer to their community.

“Heroes were crowned at the prize tables, laughter echoed across the fields, and memories were made,” added Mr Boott.

“A resounding success, the 82nd show will live on in village chatter – until it all begins again next year, on the first Sunday in September.”