Great Aycliffe Show brought its run of more than thirty years to a triumphant close last weekend, drawing hundreds of visitors from the parish and further afield.
A wide variety of arena entertainment drew laughter, cheers and applause from the spectators, with Jason Smyth’s spectacular motorcycle and quad bike stunt display of 30ft high jumps amazing everyone.  Equine duo Billy and Magpie, known as Big ‘n Little, delighted both the young and the not so young with their routine of tricks and antics, while rousing musical entertainment came from the Newton Aycliffe Pipe Band, with their pipes and drums.  The North East Strongest Man Competition demonstrated an impressive show of strength from the participating athletes, to gasps from the crowd.
Even some rain on Saturday did not dampen enthusiasm, with Aycliffe Dance Academy staging a flash mob dance.
New for this year, and with sponsorship from Great Aycliffe Town Council and Great Aycliffe and Middridge Partnership, was a performance of dance, music and drama from Quercus Live.
The showfield also hosted a range of other activities for all the family to enjoy – from a vintage vehicle parade to the ever-popular Punch and Judy show and face painting.  The handcraft and horticulture competitions were well supported, with 743 entries in an impressive display of home produce, art and craft, in addition to vegetables and some stunning flowers for visitors to admire.  Livestock also played its part in making the Show a success, with competitions being held for rabbits, poultry and pigeons.
Young sport lovers enjoyed the opportunity to take part in the Five-a-Side Football Knockout Tournament, with great support from spectators on the sidelines, while the Golf Tournament catered for both skilled and less experienced golfers.
Great Aycliffe Show has come to an end, but the Town Council is now looking forward to its replacement, Aycliffe Festival, which will take place from 3rd to 12th July next year and involve a host of community-led events taking place at many different locations throughout the parish.   If you or your group is interested in organising and providing an event at this time, please contact Great Aycliffe Town Council on 300700.

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