Gardeners, bakers, crafters and community groups from across Durham are being invited to take part in the long-awaited return of the City of Durham Show this September, as a team of local residents brings the cherished event back to life.
A popular fixture in the city’s calendar for more than six decades, the City of Durham Show came to an end in 2000. Now, organisers are reviving the event on Sunday 13 September, with plans to celebrate local talent, showcase community organisations and support charities and businesses from across the Durham area.
The show will take place at Durham Town Hall, with additional activities in the Market Square outside. Local residents are encouraged to submit their best efforts in categories including flower arranging, vegetable growing, preserves, baking, knitting and photography. There will also be a Young Exhibitor’s class, with categories including miniature gardens, a floral or vegetable crown, and arts and crafts on the theme Durham of the Future. Entry is free, with certificates provided for the winners. The full set of categories is published at https://durhamshow.org.uk/, along with entry instructions.
The Show is supported by Durham Parish Council, Durham University, the Durham Rotary Club and Councillor David Freeman’s Neighbourhood Budget.
Benedict Douglas, a Claypath resident who leads the Show’s organising committee, said:
“We hope the show will bring back an opportunity for residents of Durham and nearby villages to celebrate and share their abilities and passions with friends and neighbours. It’s been a real fillip to see the enthusiasm of local resident and allotment associations for the return of the show.”
Councillor Carole Lattin, chair of City of Durham Parish Council Environment Committee, said:
“The Parish Council is delighted to see the return of our renowned city show. We know what pleasure it will bring to residents and visitors and we wish every success to the occasion. We are proud to support the show through our Business Events grants initiative. The energy, determination and hard work which the organising committee is giving to this is really inspiring and we very much hope that all of our residents will come along and support the show and all it has to offer.”
