A POPULAR Herefordshire country show has vowed to be back with something for everyone after two years away due to Covid.

Bromyard Gala, which has been a feature of the town's calendar for more than 50 years, will return to Burgess Farm, Avenbury, on June 25 and 26.

Featuring the restored Vampire dragster which almost killed Top Gear presenter in 2006, the Rockwood Dog Display Team and steam traction engines, the Bromyard Gala is gearing up for what it hopes will be a memorable year.

The Syndicate behind the record-breaking Vampire jet car with Richard Hammond

The 'Syndicate' behind the record-breaking Vampire jet car with Richard Hammond

Vampire, which holds the British land speed record, is now owned by a group of car enthusiasts from the Bromyard area.

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"Bromyard Gala, like so many country shows, has been away for the last two years and we are delighted to announce that now, in 2022, it’s back with something for everyone," a spokesperson for the Gala said.

Steam traction engines are a big draw for visitors

Steam traction engines are a big draw for visitors

"A lot of work has been going on behind the scenes and we are excited to welcome Legges (who doesn’t enjoy Anthony’s food?) and Hobsons Brewery to the Gala field.

"Hobson’s are even going to bring along our own Gala beer, something for all the beer drinkers to look forward to."

In the main arena, there will be Trevor Hill Birds and Animals, and dotted around the fields will be classic cars, caravans, vintage tractors and the working area showing farming machinery from times gone by.

The working area shows farm equipment from days gone by

The working area shows farm equipment from days gone by

Rachel Freeman and her Everybody Dance group will be paying their first visit to Bromyard, a group which aims to inspire, explore and create great dance experiences with disabled and non-disabled people of all ages in unexpected spaces.

"Entries for the classic car section are pouring in and for those car fans amongst you we have The Vampire paying us a visit," the spokesperson added.

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"You may remember that this is the car in which TV presenter Richard Hammond nearly lost his life in 2006.

"Thankfully, Richard is still with us as is the newly restored Vampire – if you have never seen it then look forward to being amazed."

Simon Tyler working on his 1884 steam engine, Lord Burrell, at the Gala in 2017

Simon Tyler working on his 1884 steam engine, Lord Burrell, at the Gala in 2017

Another new feature this year will be a darts competition which will take place on Saturday, June 25. Heats will take place during the day with the grand final in the evening.

"Our handicrafts section will be up and running so you all have the opportunity to be creative in a variety of ways, winemaking, preserves, photographs and a fantastic range of opportunities for children to take part in many activities," they said.

"Keeping on the creative theme we are also hosting Bromyard’s Got Talent. We all recognise that there are a wide variety of talents in Bromyard and this is our opportunity to showcase yours.

"Open to all ages, dust off your tap shoes get those instruments out and sharpen up your vocal cords -who knows where it might lead you."

A David Brown tractor on parade in the main arena in 2017

A David Brown tractor on parade in the main arena in 2017

On Saturday, June 18, there will also be the Gala Quix at The Falcon Hotel in Bromyard, tickets are £7 and include a buffet. Tickets can be booked by calling the hotel on 01885 483034.

Tickets for the two-day Bromyard Gala can be bought on the day, or in advance on its website, or from the Conquest Theatre in Tenbury Road on Saturday, June 11 or June 18 between 10.30am and midday.

"The Gala has been away a long time please come along and help us to celebrate its return," they said.

Anyone interested in being a steward should call 01885 483387 or email kjhhandley142@btinternet.com.