ONE of York’s oldest shows has been saved from the axe – and could now end up bigger and better than ever.

Fulford Show, which dates back to the 19th century, will take place as usual on Bank Holiday Monday, August 29, this year.

Show committee secretary Verna Campbell revealed that the committee originally decided to cancel the event, because several members – who had run the show for very many years – felt unable to continue.

She said: “In particular, it was the task of erecting and dismantling the tables and stalls that was getting more difficult as they got older. Also the number of people volunteering to undertake the various tasks had diminished.

“Notices asking for help were put on parish noticeboards, but as only one person came forward, the decision to cancel the show was taken.

“This would have been a great pity as the show has been running – with just a few breaks – since the 19th century. A copy of the 1903 programme shows it to be flourishing at that time, and it was clearly an established annual event.”

But she said people involved in the Fulford In Bloom competition had stepped in after hearing that the show was due to fold, and some new and crucially youthful helpers had been recruited.

A grant from the parish council had been secured and the new chairman of the show committee, Steve Almond, had set up a web-site. Now it was hoped that this year’s show would be bigger and better than ever.

“We want this to be a Fulford community event and would like as many people as possible to help in a small way, as well of course as coming along to the show,” said Fulford councillor and Fulford In Bloom chairman Keith Aspden.

Anyone able to help, or wishing to book a stall, should visit the website FulfordShow.org.uk, phone 01904 466833 or, alternatively, email Steve at chairman@FulfordShow.org.uk