If you’ve never been, the scale of a ploughing championship can be a bit overwhelming — fields of competitors, rows of trade stands, and a schedule that seems to make sense to everyone except you. Here’s how to actually enjoy your first one.

Wear the right boots

This is not optional advice. Whatever the forecast says, the ground will be softer than you expect by mid-afternoon. Proper wellies, not trainers.

Find a competitor to follow

Watching the competition properly means picking one furrow and following it start to finish, rather than wandering between them. Ask a steward who’s expected to do well this year — they always know.

Budget time for the trade stands

This is where a huge amount of the actual socialising happens — machinery dealers, food producers, community groups, all set up for the day. Give it at least an hour.

Eat before 1pm

The food queues get long fast once the morning judging wraps up. Beat the rush if you can.