With preparations well underway for this summer’s Perth Show, newly appointed Perthshire Agricultural Society chairman Jock Wilkie is keen to attract new faces to help steer one of Scotland’s best-known agricultural events into the future.
The Society is currently operating with around 30 directors, 10 short of its full complement, and Wilkie believes bringing new people onto the board will help strengthen the organisation while introducing fresh ideas and perspectives.
“We have directors with business and finance backgrounds as well as trade and legal experience,” he said.
“Each brings something vital to the running of the Society and the Show and we welcome a rich and varied representation from all walks of life."
Perth Show returns to the South Inch on July 31 and August 1 for its 164th staging, with organisers promising a packed programme of livestock competitions, equestrian classes, food and drink, trade stands and family attractions.
While the public sees only the finished event, Wilkie said planning is effectively a year-round undertaking.
“It’s really a year-long task to get ready for the annual show, but we really shift into top gear a couple of months ahead.” he explained.
A familiar face within Perthshire’s rural community, Wilkie runs Netherton Equestrian near Bridge of Earn alongside his wife Sarah. The business includes a riding school and livery operation housing more than 30 horses.
His connection to Perth Show stretches back much further, however.
Having attended since childhood alongside his father David, a former Society director, he said taking on the chairman’s role was particularly meaningful.
“Perth Show is a great chance for the city and county to come together to celebrate and acknowledge our agricultural industry and the part it plays in all our lives.”
One area organisers are placing increased emphasis on this year is education. Wilkie hopes visitors, particularly younger people, will leave with a greater understanding of farming and food production.
“We’re also focussing strongly this year on education, so youngsters – and adults – will have the chance to see rural skills in action and learn where their food comes from.”
Alongside the educational elements, the Show will once again feature a wide range of livestock from across the region and beyond, including cattle, sheep, horses and a variety of smaller animals.
Visitors can also expect attractions such as mounted games, vintage machinery, pipe bands, tractor football, food stalls, trade exhibits, dog displays and a host of family-focused activities.
Wilkie said the event remains an important social occasion for the farming community at a time when many businesses are facing significant pressures.
“The farming industry faces increasing challenges with rising costs, competitive markets and ever-changing rules, regulations and restrictions. For two days, Perth Show provides a release from the stresses and concerns of life and allows farmers to come together and enjoy the fruits of their labour.” he said.
He also acknowledged the efforts of fellow office bearers and volunteers who help deliver the event, including vice-chairman Tom Rust, junior vice-chairman Fraser Campbell and secretary Jen Leslie.
Support from sponsors remains equally important, with Binn Group returning as principal sponsor alongside Morris Leslie Group, EQ Chartered Accountants, Perth College UHI, Stewarts of Tayside and Netherton Equestrian.
“The costs of staging Perth Show are astronomical, and rising year on year, we couldn’t hope to stage what is regarded as one of the best county shows in the country without sponsor support and an army of volunteers. We and the thousands who flock through the gates on the day, owe them our thanks.”
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