Biggest cavy show in the world

There are more cavies (guinea pigs) at this year’s Devon County Show than ever before – in fact there are so many that show within a Show is the biggest in the world.

Steward Stuart Inch has a record 488 entries ready for judging on Thursday, Friday and Saturday this week (May 20-22) at Westpoint, Exeter.

“Our cavy section can rightfully claim to be the largest tented cavy show in the world with 488 guinea pigs which is nearly 130 more animals than last year’s title holders,” said Stuart.

The cream of the nation’s guinea pigs will be taking part in the giant beauty competition to identify the best of the best. The animals, which are cute and easy to care for pets, are best kept in pairs.

In addition to cavies there are traditional attractions in abundance. There is magnificent livestock, wonderful local food and drink, inspiring flower and garden displays, marvellous crafts, and stalls offering a wealth of goods.

The Show is also packed with a line-up of non-stop and traditional entertainment in six rings. From the fast and furious Amanda Saville and her thrilling ponies in their Chariots of Fire, to a Tennessee horse whisper, a team of performing dogs, scurry driving, axe racing, sheep racing, vintage tractors and steam engines, there is a great deal of enjoyment to be had.

New this year is FunForKidz, a huge feature bursting with hands-on activity for lively youngsters; everything from planting seeds to baking bread, colouring wellies, milking Daisy - the cow with a difference, weaving willow wands, seeing chicks hatch, watching Tractor Ted DVDs and petting Crealy’s tame animals.

Following the tremendous success of last year’s Show the organisers are again offering free entry to children on Saturday when they come with an adult.

ends