A POPULAR agricultural show near York will go ahead next year - despite losing thousands of pounds after the last two annual events were cancelled.

Members of the Tockwith and District Show Society were left devastated after this year's show was called off at the last minute because of atrocious weather.

The 2001 show was cancelled because of the foot and mouth crisis.

But the society was given a boost at the recent AGM when it was revealed it had lost £8,000 and not £15,000 as expected. This was achieved through the "generous support" of the show's members.

More than 86 per cent of members donated their 2002 membership fee to the show society to cushion the financial loss for the year. Show secretary Norman Waller thanked members, sponsors, trade stands, and exhibitors who had donated to the society.

He said: "The cancellation of the show in 2001 was disappointing, but the abandonment of the show this year, at the 11th hour, due to the atrocious weather conditions, was devastating.

"Everyone on the committee felt deflated, having spent the previous year giving their time and effort without payment preparing for the show. Everything looked set for the best show ever."

Next year's show will be held on Saturday, August 2.

Mr Waller said: "I'm heartened by all the determination that has been shown. We have recruited some new committee members, which is always a good sign."

Three stalwart committee members have retired. They are Tim and Margaret Tunnard and Anne Handley, who between them have given more than 60 years service to the show society. Tim was responsible for setting up the society's friends group. Margaret was the "king pin" in the horticultural section for many years. Anne was influential in the arts and crafts section, but will also be remembered for organising the judges and officials lunches for a number of years.

Mr Waller would be pleased to hear from anyone who could help. Phone 01423 358588 or email secretary@tockwithshow.org.uk

Updated: 12:14 Thursday, November 14, 2002