The calm and placid giants of the horse world are on parade this weekend in the town centre.
On Saturday 30th July, the annual South Wales Shire Horse show comes back to Bailey Park. Shire or “Heavy” horses used to be known as the Old English Breed of Cart Horses.
They were working horses, a strong breed originally imported to Britain from the continent to carry soldiers in armour. Their strength and placid nature subsequently made them ideal for work on the farm and for pulling heavy loads.
A hundred years ago you would have seen these magnificent creatures towing barges along our canals, but the development of machines led to a decline in their use. Numbers fell until the 1960s, when dedicated horse breeders started reversing the trend.
Nowadays, Shire horses are once again being used for work and riding, but your best chance of catching sight of them is at a show. Take the family along to Bailey Park from 10am on Saturday to see these gentle noble giants on parade.
The range of competition classes includes Best Decorated Harness and Best Young Horse Handler. There is also, in contrast, a new class this year for miniature horses and ponies. The variation in sizes is astounding but they're all beautiful, gentle creatures, and very photogenic.
It’s sure to be a good day out, with other attractions in the park including an inflatable assault course, birds of prey, and classic and vintage vehicles.
What's more, I’ll stick my neck out and say I think the weather’s going to be kind to us! Come and enjoy it in Bailey Park.