The Hurst Show and Country Fayre has a VIP poised to open the event this year.
The very important person is remarkable charity volunteer Jessie Ritchie, who is 106 years old.
She has welcomed visitors for many years, working at the entrance gate with other members of Red Diamond Sports Club which helps people with a disability.
The show, in the centre of Hurst village on Saturday and Sunday, June 27 and 28, promises a huge range of entertainment for all ages.
On Saturday, Fusion Extreme will stage their thrilling BMX bike displays. Then on Sunday Dinton Activity Centre’s mobile climbing tower will be in action.
There will be fun hobbyhorse jumping, dance displays including Hurst Morris People, tug of war and dog agility.
Visitors can try archery, meet animals in the petting area and enjoy bouncy castles, soft play and children’s stalls.
A new Discovery Trail invites youngsters to explore the show. By following the trail and collecting hidden letters, they can enjoy the activities and earn a prize.
Martineau Green will host acts in the live music tent, and refreshments from the bar, BBQ or tea and cake stalls. Visitors can also browse local craft stalls.
Other favourites include the fun dog show (weather permitting), tractors and classic vehicles. The popular art show returns to the village hall.
The show is run by a committee of dedicated volunteers. They say it thrives thanks to residents, businesses, sponsors and visitors. It supports many local initiatives and charitable causes.
One of those is Red Diamond Sports Club. Now 50 years old, it promotes sport, leisure and other activities to develop people to improve their physical and mental wellbeing. It serves Wokingham, Bracknell and surrounding areas.
Show opener Jessie, the club’s honorary president, said her daughter, Sandy, who had Down’s Syndrome, was a club member. Sadly, she died recently aged 62.
“When she was born you were told those children wouldn’t be able to do anything, and also they did not live to more than 40,” added Jessie of Bracknell. Sandy had won two gold medals swimming for the club.
Jessie and her friend did much to help the Red Diamond Sports Club. “It wasn’t doing very well and we perked it up, got more people going and it grew into what it is today,” said Jessie.
She still volunteers every week.
