There was a strong Christian presence at the Royal Cornwall Show this year as visitors enjoyed warm sunshine, in stark contrast to 2012’s gales and rain.

Bishop Chris took Psalm 4 as the theme of his address to the ‘congregation’ gathered in the grandstand of the Main Arena at the ‘Eve of Show’ service on Wednesday 5 June. He spoke of the sense of anticipation, of innovation and enterprise and hard work that the Royal Cornwall Show represented and how at the end of every day there was a need to rest and reflect.

He emphasised how important it was that the churches – and especially the chaplains – were there to support all the people attending the show, irrespective of their background or status; and he encouraged everyone to reflect on their lives and resolve to be reconciled with friends or colleagues with whom relationships might have become strained.

“Let us remember God’s love for us,” he said. “And show and share God’s love with others.”

The Churches Together tent was a constant hive of activity and provided welcome respite and hospitality for weary visitors. As well as providing a focus on the Walk Cornwall 2 mission later this year, the tent was host to a Fairtrade stall, children’s play area and face painting, and a Christian book stall.

Just around the corner, the Truro Cathedral stand attracted a steady stream of visitors, who were spoilt for choice as they browsed in the shop, took part in a competition, or simply took the time to find out more about the Cathedral, its activities and how it all fitted in with the wider diocese.

Meanwhile, down in the Wedding Tent, Brian and Melva McQuillen, together with their willing team, extolled the virtues and value of church weddings to a captive audience of couples considering the options available to them. And it has to be said that their stand stole the show in the eye-catching stakes, for the second year running!