Farm machinery is making a considerable comeback at this year’s Bath and West Show, with around £2 million of equipment on display after years of decline.

Five major West Country and national agricultural dealerships have already signed up to the deal, which includes access to hospitality for their clients and more than 3,200 square metres of stand space. Brand new machinery on display will include a variety of tractors, ATVs, and farm equipment – and show organisers hope that the revival will continue over the coming years.

Old Mill Accountants and Financial Advisers, who sponsor the show, were instrumental in developing the package, alongside show organiser Alan Lyons, who spent many hours speaking to dealers to find out what would encourage them to attend.

“In years gone by, farm machinery was an important part of any country show,” says Mr Lyons. “Sadly, as the price of machines increased and the way farmers made purchasing decisions changed, the number of machinery exhibitors declined. Now, we’re hoping to reverse that and once again make machinery an important part of the Royal Bath & West Show.”

Sam Read, partner at Read Agriservices Ltd, is returning to the show after a two-year break, and will be bringing McCormick tractors and other machinery. “We exhibited for 17 years before that; machinery trade just gradually declined,” he says. “It’s rare to make large sales on the day at any show, but it will be good for raising brand awareness and offering hospitality to our customers.”

Four companies that will be first-time exhibitors at the event are Redlynch Agricultural Engineering, Compass Tractors, Keenan and SJH Machinery. Between them, they will be bringing Fendt, Massey Ferguson and Kubota tractors, as well as cultivators and drills, forage and feeding equipment, harrows, slitters and trailers. “It’s good exposure for us, and will hopefully generate some sales,” says Redlynch’s Hayley Gardner. “Plus we get to taste some cheese and cider, and generally enjoy the show.”

Mike Butler, board member at Old Mill, remembers visiting the show with his father and meeting dealers to discuss the next farm purchase. “It was the natural way to do business 30 years ago, and many farmers miss having that opportunity to view the different machines on offer,” he says.

“I really hope that the farming community will show their support by visiting these dealers when they are at the show this year. There were a number of other dealers who were very close to signing up and if this year is a success there is a good chance that it could build further next year, consolidating the Bath & West Show as a leading showcase for farming in the West Country.”

The Royal Bath & West Show will be held from May 28 - 31. Tickets are available online at www.bathandwest.com or by calling 01749 822200. .