The attendance at Newbury Show has plummeted by 15 per cent in the last two years, new figures have revealed. This year’s tally of 58,500 was down six per cent on last year and well below the 69,000 crowd of 2002.

Newbury and District Agricultural Society chief executive Victoria Brown, who is leaving, said: “We would like to thank everyone who took part, helping to make the event the huge success it was.”

Estate barbecue

Neighbours on one of Newbury’s toughest estates will be gathering for a barbecue on Friday to foster a new community spirit. The evening bash has been organised as part of a police initiative to explain new policing methods in the Nightingales, and local beat officer WPC Michelle Norman and street wardens will be on hand during the food and subsequent disco.

Middle aged exercise push

Tea dances, bowls and other exercises are being laid on to tempt local fiftysomethings into the leisure centre. West Berkshire Council is offering free or discount activities to raise fitness levels in the Newbury area. Call Northrcroft Leisure Centre for details of what’s on in town. 01635 31199.