Show will continue despite estate sale - organiser

The first Ripley Show took place in 1849

An annual agricultural show established at a castle and estate more than 170 years ago will go ahead next year despite plans to sell the property, organisers have confirmed.

Ripley Show is due to take place on Sunday, but the ongoing sale of the Ripley Castle estate in North Yorkshire had led to concerns that it could be the final time the event is held.

Tammy Smith, the show's secretary, said it was a "relief" that the committee would be able to tell traders and visitors that the event could continue in 2026.

"It's quite amazing when you look back at how long the show has been going and how we are keeping this tradition going, it's quite a responsibility for all of us," she said.

"We have older people who have been involved for years and whose parents and grandparents were involved," Ms Smith said.

"Then we've got newer people who are coming on as well - it's a big task to get everything organised, it's a bit of an enterprise but everybody does contribute."

First established in 1849, the show has historically been hosted on land belonging to the Ingilby family, who have lived at Ripley Castle since the 14th Century.

The show attracts more than 1,800 entries, 8,000 visitors and dozens of trade stands, according to organisers.

Last year, Sir Thomas and Lady Ingilby announced the 700-year-old property and surrounding 445 acres of land would be put on the market for £21m.

Sir Thomas said that while he could not comment on the progress of the sale, he was "delighted" to be able to confirm the show would be held again in 2026.

"Lots of people would miss it if it didn't take place, and I know it takes a huge amount of work," he said.

"They do the most incredible job. This decision gives everyone the time they need to get everything organised for next year."

Sir Thomas and Lady Ingilby have put the Ripley Castle estate up for sale

He said that he and his family had "many good" memories of attending the show and participating in the mounted fancy dress contest, which sees costumed competitors on horseback parade around a ring.

"One year I went as 'framed and mounted' with a picture frame. The frame was fine but unfortunately we forgot to introduce the horse to it," Sir Thomas said.

"It took one look, decided it wasn't wearing it and got rid of the picture frame and me in the middle of the ring."

Jeanne Mundy has shown sheep at Ripley Show for a number of years

Jeanne Mundy from Ripley Church and the Farming Community Network has been involved in the show for a number of years.

Her partner, Stephen Hipps, has over two decades of experience showing Ryeland sheep and her grandchildren now compete in the young handler category.

She said the practice of exhibiting the animals helps to pass on the knowledge to future generations.

"Having the opportunity to show different breeds of sheep is very important," she said.

"If there is a chance that Ripley Show can continue into the future, the farming community will be delighted".

The event attracts more than 8,000 visitors, organisers say

Fred Houseman has sat on the show's committee since the 1980s, including stints as the chairman and vice-chairman.

He said that the event was a "good showcase" for farming, particularly for people visiting from nearby towns and cities.

"We've got a good group of farmers in the area and everybody pulls together, it's tremendous really," he said.

"In our area, there are one or two small shows but not one similar to Ripley."

Mr Houseman said it was a "big bonus" to hear the show would take place next year.

"By that time, hopefully we'll know who is buying the estate and they'll allow us to still have the show there," he added.

"We could move into a field but it just hasn't the same attraction because of the castle and the lake.

"It would be a pity if we lose it altogether."

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