In addition to the large range of small animals and other livestock, there were many displays including gundogs, falconry, dancing horses, forestry events, veterinary nursing and livestock and machinery parades.
Rural organisations such as the Southeast Hedge Layers Association and the South Downs Conservation Board provided demonstrations. Estate tours included the farm, the veterinary nurse training centre, the animal care centre and the college's commercial winery and wine science centre.
Tractor tours with a commentary enabled visitors to visit the large estate. Attractions included the large College farm, children's activities, equine schools, outdoor adventurous activities, floristry suite, dog shows, greenhouses and garden design exhibits.
Attractions included forestry demonstrations, landscaping, biofuels, rural business training, sports and horticulture.
Visitors were able to see working forges at metalsmithing, sheep shearing at the farm and watch the cows being milked.
A food village offered a range of local foods and a crafts arena exhibited stained glass, pottery, wood skills, cardmaking, and floral art.
Equine events staged in the indoor riding schools entertained visitors with dressage, drill rides, lunges, jumping and show jumping. Equine events on offer included a biomechanics and teaching display, musical drill ride, lunge lessons and jumping demonstration. Visitors to the Equine Department also enjoyed rides on the equine simulator horse.
The College's Outdoor Education Department staged a variety of outdoor sports displays, included canoes, mountain bikes, climbing walls and a hiking display. Guided walks included the bluebell woodland around the College estate.
The dog grooming unit was busy while outside in the main arena students on the animal care course organised an exciting dog show. Terrier racing also drew an appreciative audience.
Silversmithing, metalsmithing and copper work skills as well as the working forges were ably demonstrated.
St Michael's Church, an 11th century church within the College estate, staged a flower festival.
Plumpton College Ditchling Road, Plumpton, Nr Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 3AE T: +44 (0)1273 890454 email: enquiries@plumpton.ac.uk Website: www.plumpton.ac.uk
