There are five ploughing matches in Kent this autumn, beginning on Saturday 8 September, so make a note in your diary now!
Ploughs at the ready
This year the Weald of Kent Ploughing match is being held at August Pitts Farm, Horsmonden on Saturday 15th September. There are five ploughing matches in Kent this autumn beginning on Saturday 8th September with the Swale and District match at Greenway Court Farm, Hollingbourne. The season ends with the North Kent match at Speedgate Farm, Fawkham, Dartford on 29th September.
The Weald of Kent Ploughing match is in its 65th year and has a number of prize categories for modern, vintage, steam and horse drawn ploughs which attracts dozens of entries. This year the Association also hosts the Kent Championships. There is also a under 14’s gymkhana, clay pigeon shoot, woodland skills demonstrations and hedge laying, farmers market and around 80 trade stands showcasing the businesses supporting Kent’s farmers.
Richard Thomas, partner at BTF Partnership who are sponsors of this year’s Weald of Kent Ploughing match and member of the organising committee comments: “The Weald of Kent Ploughing match was originally set up in 1947 to raise funds for the Red Cross after the second world war and it has now grown to be one of the largest social events in the calendar for farmers across the weald. The matches are very competitive – as hotly contested as an Olympic final.”
"The match has grown enormously over the last 15 years or so and attracts a very broad range of entries and showcases some interesting historic vehicles. On a more serious side, the Association is able to donate money to local charities and the match provides a great networking opportunity for anyone working in the agricultural related industry. Our logo is “So much more than just ploughing, a rural family event!” and this really is the case. I would urge people to come along."
Further details can be found at www.wkpma.co.uk Gates open at 8.30am, venue August Pitts, Churn Lane, Horsmonden, TN12 8HW.
