More than 75,000 people flocked to the Chatsworth Country Fair over the weekend (2-4 September) for the first time in three-years, following a pandemic enforced break.
Stunt horses and daredevil riders from Atkinson’s Action Horses thrilled the crowds by demonstrating skills that have seen them star in blockbuster films and television shows including Peaky Blinders, The Midwich Cuckoos and Netflix’s ‘The Witcher’ while the Bolddog Lings FMX Display Team drew gasps with their gravity-defying motorbike stunts.
Star chefs Mary Berry, James Martin and John Torode and a host of top-flight Derbyshire chefs drew hundreds to their demonstrations in the Cookery Theatre, while Country Fair President Phil Spencer held court in the Grand Ring. The television personality introduced an action packed programme including show-stopping entertainment from favourites such as a Spitfire flyover, a parachute display, Pony Mounted Games, music from massed bands and much more.
As honorary Country Fair President, TV presenter Phil Spencer performed his official duties, such as opening the show, as well as greeting visitors, performers and exhibitors: “It’s a real privilege to have been asked by the Duke and Duchess to stand as President this year. I love to be involved in communities and pastimes that help make the great British countryside all that it is so I’ve had a terrific few days sharing the experience among so many thousands of smiling faces.”
The Duke of Devonshire said: “It’s been wonderful to welcome everyone back to the country fair for the first time since 2019. The event is one of the highlights of the year at Chatsworth, and we very much missed it during the pandemic. We saw a lot of smiles throughout the weekend, and hope that everyone enjoyed their visit. The entertainment has been excellent all weekend - the Bolddog Lings motorbike stunt team were particularly thrilling but terrifying at the same time - possibly not a hobby I'll be considering.”
Dates for next year’s Chatsworth Country Fair have been confirmed as 1, 2 and 3 September 2023 and are on sale now. A special 25%, early-bird discount will run until 30 September 2022.
For more information, visit: www.chatsworth.org/countryfair/
