The Nantwich Show at Dorfold Park is not only about agriculture. A big draw for visitors to the annual event is the marquee housing the huge International Cheese Awards. With more than 4,400 entries of cheese plus many exhibitor stands offering free samples, you could be sure there is a distinctly cheesy smell in the air.

Great British Life: Cheshire Young Farmers Dairy Queen Beth Ford is flanked by Dairy Maids, Charlotte Barber (left) and Holly PraticoCheshire Young Farmers Dairy Queen Beth Ford is flanked by Dairy Maids, Charlotte Barber (left) and Holly Pratico (Image: Archant)

But cheese-lovers are not deterred by that. Cheesy cookery demonstrations also took place, including one by celebrity chef James Martin. Wielding cocktail sticks enthusiastically, those in the cheese tent were able to sample varieties of cheese, including produce from a host of local cheese makers who won awards for their efforts.

Joseph Heler and their new sister brand Orsom, based in Hatherton near Nantwich, scooped four gold medals for their cheese, including Orsom’s newest cheese, Grace. ‘This is Orsom’s first show and to win is just brilliant,’ said Richard Hollingdale, marketing director at Joseph Heler. ‘I think we are the most local cheese maker to the awards, so it is a great feeling to win. We also won a trophy for best show stand.’

Another local producer Belton Cheese, based near Whitchurch, had more than a whiff of success - they cleaned up with a tally of 12 gold, nine silver and nine bronze medals and seven trophies including the prestigious National Westminster Trophy – which is presented for the highest points score by any competing company.

‘The consensus of opinion is that we have done really well this year, we have lots of rosettes so we are happy!’ said Marc Evans, who works in the export department at Belton Cheese. ‘To win the National Westminster trophy for the consecutive year is also a pretty big deal.’

Great British Life: Nine years old Josh Smith from Chester gives his verdict on some prize-winning blue cheese. It may not be Josh's favorite but it helped Shropshire's Belton Farm collect the Nat West Trophy for gaining the most points in the ShowNine years old Josh Smith from Chester gives his verdict on some prize-winning blue cheese. It may not be Josh's favorite but it helped Shropshire's Belton Farm collect the Nat West Trophy for gaining the most points in the Show (Image: Archant)