’When they approached us there was never a doubt that we would say "yes",’ says Kirree Kermode.

She’s talking about the announcement that the Southern Agricultural Show is to move from its current location at Great Meadow to the Kermodes’ family farm, Orrisdale, in Ballasalla.

It is a big change for the event which has been held at Great Meadow for almost 50 years.

Show secretary Sarah Comish says: ’Great Meadow has been a beautiful setting and a popular location for the show.

’The Riggall Moore family of Great Meadow have a long history with the Southern District Agricultural Society, all the way back to its beginnings in 1914, and have supported the event offering the use of the land for many decades, for which the Society is very grateful.

’However, modern farming pressures mean that it has been becoming increasingly difficult to accommodate what is one of the island’s largest events, especially with it attracting more visitors every year.

’Despite the best efforts of everyone involved, the show has outgrown the land available.

’So this year’s show will be held at Orrisdale Farm, thanks to the generosity of the Kermode family.

’The Kermodes have been great supporters of the Southern Show for many years, and have one of the most successful showing records on island.

’Everyone is looking forward to planning this summer’s new show layout and hoping that it will be a success.’

Kirree says the family were only too happy to lend their support.

’It’s the least we can do after the years of enjoyment we’ve had at the show,’ she said. ’It’s always a good day out, a bit more informal than the Royal but still fierce competition.’

The Southern Show is planned for Saturday, July 31, and Sunday August 1, subject of course to the Isle of Man Government’s current Covid restrictions being lifted.

Traffic management plans for the show’s new venue are underway and more information on this will be made available nearer the time.

The society thanked the police, the Department of Infrastructure highways division, and Bus Vannin for the extensive support and advice given.

www.southernshow.org