GREEN SHOWCASE AT RURAL SHOW - 10/06/2010

This year’s South of England Show will have a decidedly ‘green’ flavour about it.

The three-day event at the Ardingly showground has traditionally been an ambassador for the British countryside, but now it’s to feature a new eco-friendly dimension. The EcoVillage make its debut at the flagship Show between June 10 and 12.

This brand new dimension, including a picnic area, is backed by the highly renowned Riverford Organics who produce delicious vegetables, fruit and meat. The village is being created by Vicky Whitlock to bring green ideas to life.

“We are trying to make choosing the sustainable option easier for people”, says Vicky, “by giving green and ethical organisations this distinct area to exhibit to huge audiences at the show. We will be highly visible to engage with a wide range of people and broaden their awareness of the importance of building a sustainable future together.”

The EcoVillage will be a showcase for up to a hundred exhibitors who offer ethical and sustainable products as well as services such as renewable energy, green transport and sustainable living. It will reveal how being eco-friendly can cover all aspects of modern life; from building, heating, lighting, waste management, transport, furnishings and food. A temporary wind turbine will take centre stage as part of a demonstration of renewable energy options.

“It reflects the Society’s commitment to green issues”, says the Show’s Director, Deborah Barber, “which includes Recycle Zone bins, environmentally-friendly toilets, and our overall Green Agenda ensuring sustainability is at the heart of all future developments”, she adds.

The South of England Show is a must for everyone and anyone that likes to revel in the sights and sounds of rural life. This year’s show promises another blockbuster year, as it throws the spotlight on the best of British agriculture, equestrianism, horticulture, food & drink, country crafts, children’s activities and entertainment.

For 2010 the Society has announced the show’s theme as “Year of the Bee”. In recognition of the plight of the humble bee, the Society has decided to adopt the species as the focus for this year’s Show – so there’s bound to be a real hive of activity.

Reduced priced advance tickets available from the website www.southofenglandshow.org.uk or from the credit card Hotline (between 17 May and 5 June) – 01444 892857.