Joys of the Cotswolds (From Gazette Series)

Joys of the Cotswolds

PRIMARY school children are being asked why living in the Cotswolds is so special to them.

The initiative is being organised in conjunction with the Suzuki Cotswold Show and Country Fair as part of its promotion of everything that is special about the Cotswolds, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Show chairman Lord Apsley is keen to broaden the appeal of the show and its aims to families and in particular children as part of what he regards as a crucial education and appreciation of the Cotswolds and the countryside in general.

"People take so munch for granted today and this includes where they live. Living in one of the most beautiful parts of the country was we do, I think it's important to appreciate what we have and the way of life we all benefit from. Others are not as fortunate in this country and in many other parts of the world", he explained.

"A large part of what we do at the Cotswold Show is to give people a real-life insight into the Cotswolds and everything that makes it so unique, its heritage, its traditions and its people. We wanted to invite children to spend a bit of time thinking about this and putting their thoughts into a classroom project in pictures, words, poetry or even a model. All it has to do is sum up why the Cotswolds are so special to them".

The winning class will received a computer along with a printer and tickets for every child in the class to attend the show in Cirencester Park on July 10-11. All participating classes will also receive ten free tickets to the show.

The Cotswold Show, which last year attracted a record attendance of 30,000 over the two days, is being promoted as 'where town meets country' and offers visitors from all over the country an opportunity to enjoy main arena attractions, an aerobatics display, music, dog and equestrian displays, locally produced food and drink within a dedicated food village, a working craft village, children's entertainment and shopping.

For further details of how to enter, primary schools should contact Gemma Irvine at CMc Media on 01285 654777. The closing date for entries in May 28.