Plough's that for a bumper match of the day?

WEST Sussex farming at its best was showcased in glorious weather at the annual ploughing match and show staged by West Grinstead and District Ploughing and Agricultural Society.

Record crowds turned out to enjoy a wealth of traditional activities at Aglands Farm in Cowfold, including heavy horse ploughing, cattle and sheep competitions, hedge cutting and laying, and clay pigeon shooting, as well as fun events such as ferret and terrier racing.

Three teams of horses took part in the ploughing competitions on Saturday. Bill Jarrett had travelled from Seddlescombe with Albert (six) and Tommy (12), the latter making his first public appearance and being guided on turns by his more experienced companion. Ian Williams of Eastbourne brought along Ben (17), a Clydesdale, and Harvey (19), a Shire.

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But it was Derek Hilton from Berkshire with Tommy (five) and Major (three), a combination he has been working for three years, who won the championship.

Back home they are used for topping and mowing, as well as giving rides at fetes.

Steam ploughing using two engines, a cable and an anti-balanced plough was another attraction, along with cattle, sheep, domestic produce, ferrets and terrier racing.

For full story, more pictures and results, see West Sussex Gazette September 24