Ashurst Country Fair, Fun Dog Show & Vintage/Retro Car Boot Sale held on Sunday 7st September 2025

Eric (Cantona) the tallest dog at the show, cleaned up with prizes at this year’s Ashurst Country Fair.  Winning his first class ‘Best Large Dog’, he then went on to win the Championship!  The Burstow family’s other pet dog George won a special rosette and the funniest class in the show ‘Dog in the Best Hat’.  “We came home on cloud 9” said Phil Burstow.  “It has to be the friendliest show that we have been to, everyone was so nice and friendly so we can't wait for next year's event”.

What a brilliant show it was!  Cars poured onto Ashurst Recreation Ground to attend the show & Car Boot Sale that ran throughout the afternoon.  There was a  range of stalls including craft stalls, dog equipment, pet food stalls, produce, bottles, books, tombola, information stalls - including the Mid Sussex Beekeepers, a raffle with wonderful prizes and even a human fruit machine!  The Car Boot Sale had items old and new for sale, and was well worth a bargain hunting look round. The Teas, Bar and Barbeque all did a brisk trade throughout  the afternoon. Music and commentary were supplied by Wayne and colleague, with Colin Eaton providing a most entertaining commentary. Colin chatted to each and every dog owner as the show went on, giving us an insight into each dog’s fascinating story. Entertainment was also provided by Graham Simmons who sang some wonderful songs from 'Memory Lane', many of the audience sang along too.

Judging was by Amina, Lauren and Nicky from Hawthorns Vets of Partridge Green and Henfield. What a difficult job it was, with so many lovely dogs taking part.  One of the highlights of the show was the ‘Dog in the Best Hat’ Competition run by Amelie Gutsell, which provided much fun and laughter. The adult class was won by George (Best), friend of Eric (Cantona) Champion Dog of the Show, with the children’s class winner Teddy with his dog Phyllis.

The Agility class was also a source of much amusement.  Organised by Tim Chavasse, the course proved to be fun but challenging, with all sorts of dogs taking part throughout the afternoon and a leader board providing a sporting bit of competition for those who took part.

Steyning Fire Brigade kindly came along with their fire engine which was a big hit with adults and children alike.  Ashurst United Football Club also helped entertain the children with football goal challenges.  Welly Wanging and Splat the Rat also provided some fun challenges.

The show organisers would like to say a very big thank you to everyone who supported the show, especially our very generous sponsors. The show raised around £4500 which helps maintain and improve the lovely Ashurst Village Hall.  A gallery of photographs and more information about the show can be found on the Ashurst Country Fair 2025 website.

For hall bookings please visit: http://www.ashurstvillagehall.org