After a two-year hiatus, the Surrey Heath Show is returning to Frimley Lodge Park on Saturday 14 May. The 2022 event is already shaping up to be even bigger and better than ever before.
For the first time in the Show’s history, the event will incorporate a boating spectacle along the adjacent Basingstoke Canal. This will be coordinated by the Basingstoke Canal Society as part of the delayed celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Canal’s re-opening in 1991. A Boat Rally including 20-30 narrow boats and various canal boats is planned along with an exciting display from the Basingstoke Canal Canoe Club. There will also be a display of archive photographs from the working canal and the canal restoration as well as other family friendly activities.
Ian Moore, Co Vice Chair of the Basingstoke Canal Society said “31 years after the official reopening in 1991, the canal is used more than ever. Over the years, The Canal Society volunteers have worked hard to raise funds to ensure we are able to maintain the Canal and improve facilities for the community and users of the canal. We’re really pleased to be part of the Surrey Heath Show this year and have a number of exciting activities planned to celebrate our anniversary including a boat rally and a display from the Basingstoke Canal Canoe Club. We hope to see lots of people there and raise awareness about the society and the work we do.”
This year’s Surrey Heath Show will also introduce an updated layout, new places to eat and drink and a number of new stalls. Complementing the new attractions, a number of show favourites will make their return including the ever-popular Classic Car Show, the Frimley Lodge Miniature Railway and the Show Arena.
Launched by passionate volunteers back in 2007, the Surrey Heath Show exists to raise money and awareness for local good causes. Each year the Show distributes profits to local charities and community groups, with over £6,000 donated to help fund such important local projects in 2018.
Sheila Cooper, Treasurer of the Surrey Heath Show Committee said: “We’re really pleased to be working with the Basingstoke Canal Society to celebrate their 30th anniversary this year and I have no doubt the breadth of activities the canal offers will make a great addition to the day. We have lots of other exciting things planned including the Classic Car Show, miniature railway, performances from local groups in the arena and a whole host of stalls. There is something for all the family and great refreshments to enjoy. I would encourage anyone who attends to explore the park to ensure they take advantage of the wide range of things on offer.”
There are so many ways to get involved in the show whether as a volunteer, stallholder or simply as a visitor – by being part of the day, you can really help to make a difference in your local community.
The event takes place from 10am until 4pm and is free to attend for visitors, with car parking for the day £5. To find out more about the event, please visit surreyheathshow.org or for more information about the Basingstoke Canal Society visit basingstoke-canal.org.uk.
