Shopping village could fill hole in county show area
Shopping village could fill hole in county show area
CUISINE, clothing and cottage craft businesses facing a loss of trade due to show cancellations will be out in force at the Countryside Shopping Village next week.
The event, to be held at Huntington Racecourse, Cambs, on May 25-27, will feature about 50 stands, selling everything from shooting coats and woollies to rocking horses, cashmere and smoked salmon.
"With the cancellation of all the county shows for the foreseeable future due to the foot-and-mouth crisis, many of these businesses face an insurmountable loss of trade," says a spokesperson for the organisers. "Farmers are horrendously hit by F&M – but we rely on the farmers."
One exhibitor, Mark Shenton – proprietor or Woolovers – says: "By creating an alternative venue and event for the public, we can continue to trade and, just as importantly, continue to offer the public an enjoyable and leisurely browse in the countryside of unusual and exclusive goods and fine foods."
Proprietor of Touch of Silk, Stuart Leigh, adds: "We do not want our unique skills, designs, craftsmanship and innovative products to become a statistical casualty along with the unfortunate farmers because of this terrible crisis."
For more details on the event, entry to which costs £2 (concessions, £1), call 01344-620636.