A Photographer’s First Experience at the LCCP Show 2026

There’s something about a classic village show that makes you feel completely grounded. This year, I had the privilege of experiencing that feeling for the very first time with the Latchley, Chilsworthy and Coxpark Show, known locally as the LCCP Show. When a friend messaged to say the organisers were looking for a photographer, I couldn’t resist. A quick email later, I was lined up to provide media coverage for their 2026 event, and I had no idea what a treat I was in for.

It was my first-ever community show, and while I imagined a quaint village fete, what awaited me was a celebration on a much bigger scale than I expected. This event was alive with tradition, energy, and connection — everything that makes rural life so unique.

The Story Begins

I started the day with the show programme in hand, planning my route around the grounds. Organisation was key, if I wanted to capture every highlight, from the competitions to the demonstrations, I needed to know where to be and when.

The atmosphere was already buzzing as locals assembled in the field. There were marquees brimming with colour, bunting strung overhead, and the scent of fresh-baked cakes drifting through the late July air. For me, the starting point was inside the main marquee, where the judges were busy with their evaluations.

Competitions and Craftsmanship

I’d seen photos of village competitions before, but to experience them up close was something special. Every single entry told a personal story — years of practice, or perhaps just a fun idea brought to life. From perfectly risen cakes to imaginative vegetable sculptures, the creativity on display was incredible.

The food and drink section was a delight — a rainbow of jams, homemade liqueurs, and bakes that would rival any high-end patisserie. The arts and crafts table was equally impressive: intricate jewellery, hand-built Lego scenes, and even wearable creations.

It reminded me of a wedding I’d photographed a few years back — Rachel and Adam’s day in Tewkesbury. They had a marquee and a quintessential village wedding vibe, complete with cake judging and bunting. This, however, was that concept turned all the way up to celebrate an entire community.

Stepping Back in Time with The Black Company

Out on the main field, history enthusiasts were in for a treat. The Black Company, a renowned UK-based historical re-enactment group, brought the 15th century back to life. Dressed in full armour and period attire, they re-enacted scenes from the Wars of the Roses, captivating the crowds with demonstrations of medieval weaponry and camp life.

Fun for All Ages

What struck me most about the LCCP Show was how inclusive it felt. Everywhere you turned, there was something for every age group. Children ran between stalls with faces painted like lions and superheroes, got lost chasing gigantic bubbles, and queued eagerly to throw wet sponges at a brave soul in the stocks.

There was classic entertainment too — tug of war competitions, bouncy castles, juggling acts, and even a brilliant pony show that made the younger participants look so polished and proud in their smart jackets and riding breeches.

Music, Laughter, and Local Pride

Throughout the day, the soundtrack to all this buzz came from live music. The Valley Singers and the Stone River Band took turns on stage, filling the showground with everything from folk harmonies to lively guitar riffs. Music has a way of stitching an event together, and their sets certainly did that here, creating moments for people to stop and sway before drifting to their next attraction.

I wandered through the craft stalls, met some of the most passionate artisan sellers, and couldn’t resist a quick ice cream break when I caught a cheerful vendor passing out cones on what was shaping up to be a warm summer day.

A Personal Highlight – The Dog Show

If you know me, you know I have a soft spot for dogs. So it’s no surprise that my favourite part of the LCCP Show was the dog show. Seeing so many wagging tails and proud owners gather for the judging was heart-warming. From elegant retrievers to mischievous spaniels, every entrant stole the spotlight in their own way.

Moments like these sum up what a community show is all about: connection, joy, and a sense of shared celebration.

Why Community Events Matter

What I loved about photographing the LCCP Show was its authenticity. In an age of fast-paced digital everything, here was an event that reminded me of simple, honest fun. No screens, no rush – just people coming together, working tirelessly behind the scenes, and giving their time freely to make something precious happen.

Events like these survive because of volunteers and community spirit. If you’re local and want to know more about supporting or participating in future shows, you can find all the details on the LCCP Show official website.

Complete Gallery from the LCCP Show 2026

Closing Thoughts

What began as a chance to help out turned into one of the most enjoyable projects I’ve worked on this year. The LCCP Show wasn’t just about competitions or entertainment – it was about feeling connected to a community that cares deeply about its traditions.

If you’re planning your own event and would like it captured with the same care, I’d love to chat. And if you’ve never been to the LCCP Show before, make next summer the year you change that.

Explore more of my event and commercial photography work here.