Optimism over new-look Keith Show
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Turning Keith Show into a purely weekend event should give more people the chance to attend.
That's the view of the organising team who are looking to build on the success of last year's event – the first for three years due to the pandemic.
For the first time ever the upcoming Keith Show will take place on a Saturday and Sunday this August, rather than the traditional Sunday and Monday.
Shifting the two-day event forward by 24 hours is a bold move, especially given that Keith Show dates back to 1872.
But the organisers reckon it fits more with modern life.
Sally Smith, the show's treasurer, said: "Gone are the days when people could just get a day off work during the week.
"Holding the show on a Saturday as well as Sunday just makes more sense and should attract more families.
"We were really busy last year because lots of people took the opportunity to catch up with each other after the pandemic.
"We really want to keep that going.
"The fact is Keith Show show has always been a great social event.
"Many folk who had moved away would time their visits back to coincide with it."
The switch-over means the popular livestock events, which used to take place on Monday, will now be held on Saturday
Another change for this year's show is that it will have a dedicated 'kids corner' for the first time. Amongst its attractions will be long-standing favourites The Singing Kettle.
Meanwhile, for the grown-ups there'll be a gin bar, beer garden, artisan pizzas, Indian-style pizzas, a hog roast plus a picnic area.
The Riders of the Storm stunt team have also been booked as well.
Ewan Stewart, Keith Show's new chairman has been involved in running it for the past 20 years, having originally been in charge of the vintage tractor and car section.
He said: "This is the biggest two-day event in Moray. It's something for the community, so come along and enjoy yourself."
Keith Show will take place on Saturday, August 5, and Sunday, August 6.
Other events are also going on in the build-up.
The Irvine family's stock judging competition at Brae Head Farm in Drummuir will be held on July 9, featuring both Limousins and Texels.
Tickets have already sold out for a Ladies Day which will be held in the marquee at the Keith Show ground from 2pm-8pm on Saturday, July 29.
