MIX56 Meets the People of the Nantwich Show

Cheshire’s Mix 56 Meets the People of the Nantwich Show

The Cheshire’s Mix 56 team headed out on location for a special outside broadcast from the Nantwich Show, bringing listeners the sounds, stories and friendly faces from one of Cheshire’s favourite agricultural events.

Based at Reaseheath College, the show celebrated everything that makes the county special: farming, food, countryside, family entertainment and a strong sense of community.

The 2026 event took place on Wednesday 29 July, attracting thousands of visitors throughout the day.nwfagriculture.co+1

Smithy explored the showground, meeting the people behind some of the stalls, attractions and organisations that helped make the event such a memorable day out.

Meeting Murphy, the remarkable pony

One of the most heart-warming interviews came from the Nantwich Riding for the Disabled Association, based at Reaseheath College.

Smithy chatted to Sheila, the organisation’s chair, who explained how the group supports children and adults through horse riding. The centre has seven horses and is run entirely by volunteers.

The benefits go far beyond learning to ride. For some participants, being around horses can help build confidence, improve balance and develop core strength. Sheila also explained how children on the autistic spectrum can form special connections with animals, while people recovering from physical disabilities can benefit from the movement and exercise involved in riding.

Smithy was introduced to Murphy, a 16-year-old pony with a very special talent. Although he can be energetic and lively, Murphy seems to understand when a rider needs extra care and patience.

Olivia, one of the RDA riders, explained how riding helps both her mobility and her mental wellbeing. Focusing on the horse and the connection between them can provide a welcome escape from feelings of isolation.

Olivia and Murphy had recently competed at the championships at Hartpury, achieving an impressive second-place finish together.

To find out more about the Nantwich Riding for the Disabled Association, visit nantwichrda.org.

Local stories in the Creative Crafts Market

The Creative Crafts Market was full of talented local makers, including children’s author Linda Wipp.
Linda, who lives in nearby Wrenbury, spent 20 years working as a primary school teacher before deciding to follow her dream of becoming an author. She has now written three books.

Her stories include A Doormouse’s Tail, which explores environmental protection and the difference even the smallest voice can make; Gerwin the Gonk, a Christmas story about friendship; and Kylo the Coo, which focuses on kindness and the way it can return to us.

Linda’s books are illustrated by Alina Oplekhanskaya, who brings the characters and stories to life. Alongside signed copies, Linda’s stall featured greeting cards, bookmarks, art prints and stickers.
It was a lovely example of the creativity and talent to be found right here in our local communities.

A packed programme of entertainment

Smithy caught up with show manager Liz Parkin, who described the event as a fantastic, if busy, day.
Visitors could watch Shire horse judging, the Shetland Grand National and the Tilstock Skydivers.

There were also the Nantwich Cheese Awards and a Farming Discovery Zone, where families could learn more about agriculture and where their food comes from.

The 2026 show also featured a National Year of Reading theme, with authors, readings and children’s activities taking place throughout the day.

Joanne Goodwin, editor of Cheshire Life, described the event as a celebration of Cheshire’s people, countryside, food and drink. Visitors to the magazine’s stand could pick up a free copy of the August issue, which included an interview with Jason Donovan.

Farming, learning and fun

The Nantwich Young Farmers were also enjoying a busy day, raising money for charity with a popular dunking challenge.

Smithy spoke to vice-chairman Ed, who explained that the group brings together young people aged approximately 13 to 30. Members take part in social activities, fundraising and community events. Their annual pantomime alone had raised more than £5,000 for charity.

At the Reaseheath College stand, visitors could try a mechanical horse, meet a milking cow, explore farm-to-fork activities and have a go at climbing.

Natalie explained that the college offers courses in agriculture, forestry, arboriculture, sport and animal management. Student Billy, who is studying a T Level in forestry and agriculture, was helping children experience tree climbing for themselves.

Local businesses and countryside favourites

The outside broadcast also stopped at Nantwich Gin, a family business which began life as a lockdown project.

The company’s London dry gin contains ten botanicals, while its distinctive glassware features artwork inspired by Nantwich’s architecture. Smithy also discovered that the business has a shop at the Cocoa Yard in Nantwich.

There were plenty of shiny vehicles on display from Acorn Motor Group, which had won the award for Best Motor Trade Stand. The company explained that accessibility had been an important part of the stand’s design, ensuring visitors could move around comfortably.

Finally, Smithy visited the sheep section, where Oliver introduced him to a group of Jacob sheep. Although they had not placed in the show, the animals were enjoying the attention—and making the most of the shade on a warm day.

From horses and sheep to authors, farmers, students and local businesses, the Nantwich Show offered a brilliant snapshot of Cheshire’s community spirit.

Cheshire’s MIX56 was delighted to be there, meeting the people who make the county such a wonderful place to live, work and visit—and bringing listeners a flavour of the show through our special outside broadcast.

You can listen to the highlights right here.