A PACKED meeting of more than 80 people has welcomed John Clapp as the new president of the Mid Devon Show.

Mr Clapp, owner of Hartnoll Farm at Post Hill, was sworn in by former chairman Peter Pugsley at the show’s AGMon January 10.

He said: “I'm very honoured to be president of the Mid Devon Show for 2014, especially as the 21st show is at my home, Hartnoll Farm.

“It has been such a pleasure watching the show evolve over the last 20 years and I feel proud to have always been a part of it.

“In particular I’ve always taken a keen interest in the farm demonstrations that give the community a great insight into farming practices, from the old vintage machinery to new modern machines of today.

“My wife, Clare, and I are looking forward to working alongside so many committed people who have surely made the Mid Devon Show one of the best agricultural events in the UK.”

Attending the meeting at Uplowman village hall were committee members, show members, sponsors, volunteers and guests, including outgoing 2013 show president John Greenslade.

Mr Pugsley paid tribute to the army of volunteers without whom the show would not be possible.

He said: “We’ve been so lucky to hold our shows at Hartnoll Farm, and after our 21st show there this coming July it’s natural that the land owner should now want to farm the land without regard to the requirements of the show.

“The change of site for 2015 will be critical for the future of the show.

“Much remains to be done, but a team is making every effort to put everything in place for the potential new site.

“In the meantime, a start is shortly to be made on constructing the new shed on the show’s own field.”

The 21st Mid Devon Show will be held at Hartnoll Farm on Saturday, July 26.

For more information, call show organiser Carolyn Branton on 01884-242486 or visit www.middevon show.co.uk