It’s Rotherham Show-time with new and old attractions

A fresh offering is the Chuckle Tent, bringing comedy from the likes of Jo Enright, Anthony J Brown and Martha McBrier.

And returning from previous years are the vintage vehicle rally, strongmen competitions, Let’s Circus and the Made in Rotherham Horticultural Show.  

Elsewhere there will be the Asian bazaar, the produce and makers market and food court, while Joli Vyan’s Timeless circus troupe will perform on a seven-metre high hourglass frame.

Cllr Dave Sheppard, Rotherham Council’s cabinet member for social inclusion, said: “I’m really looking forward to a packed programme of music, dance, food and community events.

“The council has delivered the show for more than 40 years and this year’s event has something for everyone to see and do, it’s a real chance for people to soak up the festival vibe, see their family, friends and communities and celebrate what Rotherham has to offer.

“We’re expecting thousands of people to come along and best of all, entry is free, which is a real bonus during a cost of living crisis. Come and have a great weekend with us, we’ve got all the entertainment you could wish for.”

The children and families area has an extensive programme including The Rascally Diner and The Not So Grimm Twins, monster action from model city maze Godzillatown, and — following its successful debut in Clifton Park earlier this summer — the Fish Mobile.

RMBC’s libraries, museums and early years services will also provide activities for youngsters and advice for adults.

Those seeking a quieter experience will be able to listen in on sound artist Jason Singh’s The Hidden Music of Trees.

This augmented reality audio visual outdoor installation involves using a phone app to enjoy and “enhanced nature-based experience”.

Music lovers will find what they crave at The Rockingham and Rhythms of Rotherham stages, which will offer a mix of performances from reggae and salsa to modern brass and afro jazz, with acclaimed bhangra group Sahara delivering the final set on Saturday afternoon.

Organisers say the show will celebrate the “uniqueness and spirit” of Rotherham throughout the weekend, as well as offering a great setting for people to get together.

The show runs from 11am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Parking will be available at Herringthorpe Playing Fields for £3 per day (card payment only).