Pig Racing

Ever seen pigs do a steeplechase before? Neither had I.

Basil and I left Len at home and went to the Rempstone Steam and Country Fair. SO many steam engines and tractors, stalls, eateries and family events - such as pig racing.

Four children at a time were invited to the head of the run to take a number. Then six young piglets, Gloucesters and Tamworths, were released from a trailer and encouraged to run up to the end of the run, tackling small hurdles as they went, enticed by a lady shaking a bucket of feed.

As you can see, each pig had a number. The youngster who had guessed the winning pig got a prize. After three goes, the pigs got fed up, or overfed, and stopped cooperating.

Here they are, heading back to their trailer, 'jumping' a hurdle.

The Rempstone Steam Fair has been going since 1958, but this was the first time that I'd gone, regardless of the fact I've lived in the area since 1978. Being overseas was one reason for not going. Gothla weekends used to be this weekend in July, but Gothla will be in two weeks time this year instead.