A RURAL Powys village is supposed to be celebrating its annual show’s 100th anniversary next year – but organisers warn that new blood and new ideas are required, otherwise it may yet not make it to the centenary.

Llanbister Show and Sports chiefs are desperate to celebrate the special occasion next May, but fear for the future of the event if they are unable to attract more committee members or receive more input from the local community.

A meeting hoping to bolster recruitment and ideas held last month failed to have the desired effect, with another emergency summit scheduled next week described as a “crunch meeting”. The meeting will take place on Thursday, November 11, at 7.30pm at Llanbister Community Hall, with show treasurer James Grieve imploring members of the village and surrounding area to come together in order to secure the show’s future.

“The last meeting was a bit disappointing so I have had another go at trying to persuade people to come forward,” said Mr Grieve.

“We’re issuing a warning that we will give up on the show if there is no help forthcoming.”

The traditional date for Llanbister Show and Sports is the Whitsun bank holiday on the last Monday in May. Not only will 2022 be the show’s 100th anniversary it is also the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The 2022 bank holiday has an additional day and has been moved to the first weekend in June, beginning Thursday, June 2.

Beacons are being lit at 9.15pm on June 2 and show organisers feel the occasion could be a truly special opportunity – should they be in a position to actually put on the event.

“Like many shows, we lack numbers to plan and prepare. At the last meeting there was but one new face and two emails from beyond the usual small numbers,” added Mr Grieve.

“It may not be feasible to prepare a show without more input and help from members of the community. If this is not forthcoming the next meeting later this month, the committee is likely to decide that they are not confident to be able to organise a show in 2022. In that event the next show would be 2023 – if there is anyone willing to organise future shows at all.”

Apart from the usual pony show and jumping (the first of the year in Radnorshire), sheep show, dog show, children's athletics, art, photography and local produce (adult and children), the show is looking for fresh and exciting ideas, suggestions and support from the community so as to prepare for what could be a really fabulous event. Additional ideas so far include a walk down memory lane of previous shows, a mobile climbing wall, a fun ride, fun run and craft fair.

Do you have other ideas? If so, organisers are asking interested parties to attend the next meeting or make contact with show organisers via the Llanbister Show Facebook page. Alternatively, email llanbistershow@hotmail.com, phone 07821 106025 or write to: Brynithon, Llanbister, Llandrindod Wells, LD1 6TR.