Horses, ponies and riders grace the annual agricultural event

The Melplash Agricultural Society holds one of the largest agricultural shows in the South West. Based in West Bay, Bridport and held on the last Thursday before August Bank Holiday, stalls and exhibits include livestock, home crafts, horticulture and locally produced food. The show has always been known for its horse exhibitions.

The Melplsh Agricultural Society, established since 1847 has its origins in 1846 when a church built by James Bandinell was consecrated. On 20 October, a ploughing match was held to settle a local farming dispute. The farmers and landowners held a feast at the Melplash Inn to celebrate both the consecration of the church and the ploughing competition and agreed to form the Melplash Agricultural Society. The association of church, village, society, ploughing topped off with a feast forms the basis of the agricultural show.