The Blacksmiths Chairman: What to Expect in 2025

We spoke with Andrew Waight, Chairman of the Blacksmiths Section at the New Forest & Hampshire County Show, to find out what’s in store this year – and why this corner of the Show is not to be missed.

A Central Spot and Fresh Line-Up

This year, the Blacksmiths are back – in their original pre-2023 home, nestled between the Festival Of Food and Old Time Farming. It’s a prime location that puts the section right at the heart of the Showground, making it easier than ever for visitors to stop by and see the sparks fly.

Andrew and his team have been working hard behind the scenes to shape a line-up full of energy and skill and 2025 is set to be one of their most exciting years yet.

Live Competitions

Watch live as blacksmiths and farriers take on timed challenges throughout the day. This year’s competitions include:

A 90-minute set piece challenge with a medieval theme
A 20-minute task where competitors create a saleable item, such as fire tools or a paper knife
A 2-hour set piece challenge to craft a medieval candlestick holder, open exclusively to Service Men and Women of the British Armed Forces

It’s a rare chance to see these skills in action, right up close!

Keeping the Craft Alive

Beyond the competitions, visitors can explore a display of beautifully crafted items from some of the region’s most talented blacksmiths in the marquee, highlighting the incredible versatility and artistry of the trade.

One of the section’s proudest traditions is its support for the next generation. A dedicated student competition will again run this year, open to those who have studied the craft between 2018 and 2025. It’s a brilliant way to celebrate emerging talent and ensure this craft continues to thrive.

A Family Tradition Forged in Fire

At its core, the Blacksmiths Section is about the people who keep the craft alive – it’s about family, heritage and a deep love of the craft. Chairman Andrew Waight has led the section for seven years, taking over from John Roberts – who succeeded Andrew’s father, David Waight AWCB, LWCB.

“I’ve had the privilege of serving as Section Chairman for the past seven years, following John Roberts, who succeeded my father, David Waight AWCB, LWCB. My father led the section for nearly 30 years and served as a Director on the Board of the New Forest Agricultural Show Society from 1999 to 2016, contributing over 40 years of expertise to the craft,” says Andrew.

He also shared how the section has grown in recent years:

“Over the past five or six years, we’ve broadened the Blacksmiths Section to include Farriers, and for the last three years, we’ve proudly hosted live shoeing competitions. These additions have introduced a fresh level of public interest and interaction.”

The section is supported by a group of long-standing stewards, many of whom are Andrew’s own family.

“We’re like a big family and pull together every year to put on a fantastic display,” says Andrew. “There’s no ‘I’ in team, and the sponsorship we’ve brought in this year has helped put the section in a better financial position too.”

Their shared passion, teamwork and hands-on commitment are a big part of what makes the Blacksmiths Section such a loved and enduring part of the Show.

Don’t Miss It – Get Your Tickets Today

Whether you’re keen to learn, love heritage crafts, or just want to see something unique, the Blacksmiths Section is an unmissable part of the New Forest Show 2025. And it’s just one of the many incredible attractions on offer across the three days – from livestock and local food to thrilling equestrian displays and countryside traditions.

Buy your tickets today and start planning your visit. For more details on what’s happening each day, head to our What’s On page.