The show is the first event in the region dedicated to exhibiting the many ways in which individuals, families and organisations can help make a “greener world”.
It was the brainchild of Queens College’s head of geography Simon Ross, and held on playing fields behind the independent school. Almost 100 exhibitors set up stands, ranging from commercial solar power demonstrators to down-to-earth advice on keeping chickens.
Show manager Giles Adams said more than 3,000 people had attended the event by midday, buoyed by a “perfect weather window”.
“We have had a fantastic event so far and having Hugh here has been a huge boost,” he said. “Sustainability is something a lot of people are aware of but don’t have a massive understanding and this has raised a great deal of awareness. There are a lot of family-orientated stalls as well as advice for growing plants on your roof, poly-tunnels, smallholding courses… it just goes on and on.”
Visitors enjoyed live music from folk-rock group Elephant Talk and browsed the dozens of organic food stalls as well as cider and ale bars. Free entry and parking helped attract the visitors, many with younger children, who were delighted by the chance to see lambs, ducks and chickens up close.
Organiser Simon Ross added: “I’ve been delighted and enthused to see such a range of companies and organisations wanting to take part in the show.
“There was something for everyone, from growing your own food to learning about renewable energy sources. with lots of hands-on activities and demonstrations for children – who are our environmental conscience.”
Food technology students from Queen’s College who helped make pizzas at a wood-fired mud-brick oven were joined by Mr Fearnley-Whittingstall who chopped herbs, chose his seasonings and clearly enjoyed the taste of his own cooking.
