What's On?
The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery in Association with Chapelfield Shopping Centre
The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery is stationed in St John's Wood, London. The Troop, as it is known, was formed on the orders of King George VI after World War II to carry on the tradition of a mounted artillery unit being based in London for ceremonial duties.
Its duties - as part of the Household Troops - include the firing of Royal Salutes in Hyde Park on Royal Anniversaries and State Occasions, and providing a gun carriage and team of black horses for State and Military funerals.
It also takes part in other ceremonial occasions such as the Queen's Birthday Parade, the Cenotaph Parade and State Visits. In addition the Troop performs the duties of Queen's Life Guard at Horse Guards for three weeks each summer.
The Troop has 172 soldiers and 120 horses and is usually on parade with six guns. There is a misconception that recruits wanting to join the Troop must have ridden before; this is not the case for the Troop will train soldiers to ride just as they train all the horses. Troop soldiers need to be robust, as do the horses and the talents of both the soldiers and horses are recognised throughout the equestrian world.
The Musical Drive is probably one of the most exciting and spectacular events involving horses that can be seen anywhere in the world. It involves six Gun Teams performing intricate movements at the canter and gallop. It is dangerous, fast and a real adrenaline buzz. It is very different from riding cross country or show jumping and the soldiers who take part need to be fearless, well trained and be able to work as a team. The Musical Drive is not for the feint hearted - be it the Driver in a Gun Team or the spectator.
The Sheep Show
The Sheep Show is a fun and educational look at different breeds of sheep with the emphasis on wool. The show is now more popular than ever - appearing at over 40 venues during the year 2000 in front of an estimated audience of 1.6 million people!
The shows are presented by New Zealanders Richard Savory and Stuart Barnes and are fun for all ages. As each of the nine breeds of sheep are introduced to the audience, they learn about its attributes and how wool from the sheep's back becomes a jumper to wear. Meet Nobby the Norfolk Horn, Souse the Southdown and their woolly friends. Don't miss the famous 'Sheep Show Shuffle' and the fascinating live shearing demonstration.
Each show lasts around 30 minutes and several shows are performed during the day from the Sheep Show's own self-contained 40ft stage trailer, complete with sound and lighting - all that is required is an enthusiastic audience.
Farriery Demonstrations
Demonstrations will be given at 1000, 1200 and 1400 each day by Stephen Dell from Somerleyton and Benjamin Perks.
Norfolk Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs
The theme this year is to promote Local Produce. The YFC will be part of the Grand Ring display in celebration of the Year of Food & Farming entitled "We Grow It - You Eat It". Clubs will produce a motorised vehicle depicting a vegetable or any local produce such as cheese or even a turkey. These exhibits will be able to be seen on the YFC stand.
Sheep Shearing - First Drive
An opportunity to see the experts at work. Shearing demonstrations will be given by Paul Seabrook on both days at 1030, 1130, 1230, 1500 and 1600.
John Lewis & EDP Norfolk Fashion Show
Fashion show every hour
Join us as we show you the best in summer fashion and accessories on stand 250. origins will show their latest products in 15 minute demonstrations, and the Espresso bar will provide mini-sized desserts and delicious non-alcoholic punch for you to enjoy.
Tickets
Tickets are available in advance from a number of outlets, including the Royal Norfolk Show office. Have a look on the
Royal Norfolk Show's website for further details of outlets and prices.