Island Life Magazine Ltd October/ November 2012 | Page 84

COUNTRY LIFE

John Stallard from Upper Hyde Farm, Shanklin
emerged as champion when the Isle of Wight
Ploughing Association held their annual match
at Wellow Manor Farm, Wellow.
There were slightly more entries this year
taking part in all 59, five more than last year.
Stephen Peachey Chairman commented,
“We were all very worried with regards to the
weather as the previous weekend was dreadful
and so it was touch and go, however we could
not believe our luck when the sun broke
through in the morning. It made a splendid day
for both competitors and spectators.”
The five ploughing judges this year came from
Norfolk and Kent. Andrew Mew one of the
judges previously lived on the Island and used
to enter the competition back in the 70s. In his
speech Andrew remarked on how enjoyable the
IW ploughing match is.
There were some 30 trade stands varying
from tractor and farm machinery agents, to
agricultural and rural activity tents as well as
a drilling rig for supply bore hole providing
green energy. Also on site was a stand by the
IW Police promoting the merits and success of
Farm Watch.
Not only do the IW Ploughing Match
Association organise the annual ploughing
match they also organise dairy and crop
competitions throughout the year. The oldest
tractor ploughing in this year’s match was
a 1938 Fordson owned by R.J Cooke from
Shorwell.
The organisers thanked Mr. and Mrs. A.
Holmes owners of Wellow Manor Farm for the
use of the perfect site, and also to Mrs. Rachel
Holmes for presenting the prizes to the winners
on the field at the end of proceedings, as well as
the numerous sponsors who contributed to the
success of the event.

John takes
top prize

at IW Ploughing Match
Maurice Flux and Mrs Rachel Holmes

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