A look back at the history of the popular Tendring Show

The Tendring Show is entering its 106th show on July 8.

Established in 1899, the Tendring Hundred Farmers’ Club was set up with the aim of providing local farmers with valuable technical knowledge to enhance animal breeding and stock rearing eventually developing into an annual show.

Agility - crowds watch in awe as dogs and owners show off their close connection (Image: N/A)

For more than half a century, Lawford has been home to the traditional event but for decades before the show moved around the north east Essex area.

Impressed - classic and vintage cars are displayed for an admiring crowd (Image: N/A)

Walton farmer John Eagle was the visionary behind the first Tendring Hundred Show.

Beautiful - Suffolk Punches are paraded around the main ring at the show (Image: N/A)

Collaborating with Herbert Wenden of Morehams Hall, Frating, an 11-member committee was formed, representing the area’s 33 parishes.

Full stretch - a dog chases its prey in one of the demonstrations (Image: N/A)

Support followed quickly and the committee garnered 200 members within months and laid the groundwork for the inaugural Tendring Show the following year.

Mud - the usually sun-blessed Tendring Show suffered a deluge in 2012 when cars got stuck in the car park and had to be dragged out and wellies replaced sandals as appropriate footwear (Image: N/A)

The show, drawing nearly 25,000 attendees each year, brings together the rural and urban populations of north Essex.

All ears - a giant rabbit with enormous ears in the rabbit tent (Image: N/A)

The event maintains its strong agricultural heritage, featuring displays of agricultural machinery, livestock and opportunities to buy items from local producers.

High octane - riders show their skill in the fast moving games (Image: N/A)

The show has had to be cancelled due to the outbreak of foot and mouth disease and during the Covid pandemic.

Flashback - the white marquees of the Tendring Show, here pictured in 1982 at its current Lawford Park home (Image: N/A)

Tom Glover, a spokesperson for the event, said: “The Tendring Show has a rich history and can trace its origins back to a cattle show and ploughing match in a meadow behind Thorpe Church in the 1830s.

“Farming has fundamentally transformed in this time but the farmers of the Tendring Hundred have overcome numerous hurdles and remained committed to delivering what is a unique event.

“We come together to celebrate our shared vibrant rural life, history, and future.

“This year, the show will champion creativity in the countryside to shine a light on the wonderful skills of local craftsmen.

“Many other shows have faded away in this time, but the Tendring Show has remained a hugely popular event by staying true to its roots while not being afraid to move with the times.”