Isle of Wight event Royal County Show to host racing camels

Camels getting ready for their journey <i>(Image: Wightlink)</i>
Camels getting ready for their journey (Image: Wightlink)
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Some unusual visitors will be swapping sand for the sea as they make their way to the Isle of Wight over the weekend.

Known as the ships of the desert, a group of camels will instead travel as passengers on a Wightlink ferry.

They will be making a 'rare' trip across the Solent for the Royal Isle of Wight County Show.

Racing around the arena in front of thousands of visitors, the animals, from camel hire provider Joseph's Amazing Camels, will be one of the highlights of the two-day event.

Wightlink has joined NFU Mutual Isle of Wight in sponsoring the camel attraction.

Graham Biss, Royal IW County Show chairman, said: "The show goes from strength to strength, and we are so excited to welcome Joseph's Amazing Camels this year.

"We are so grateful to NFU Mutual and Wightlink for their support."

John Heather, Senior Agent at NFU Mutual New Forest, IW and Bournemouth, said: "As long-standing supporters of the Royal Isle of Wight County Show, we're proud to sponsor the camels this year and help bring an exciting and unique attraction for visitors to enjoy."

Sam Woodman, Wightlink partnerships marketing manager, said: "The Royal Isle of Wight County Show is a pillar of the Island's social calendar.

"We have always been proud to support it and are delighted to sponsor the camel team who will be such a highlight this year."

A spokesperson for Joseph's Amazing Camels said: "The camels rarely get to travel overseas so the Royal IW County Show will be quite a treat for them.

"We hope you will all enjoy watching them race and everyone enjoys meeting them."

Other attractions at this year's show include giant tortoises, Shetland Pony racing, a rodeo bull ride, vintage tractors, a fun dog show, livestock classes, a funfair, food market and craft stalls.

The Royal IW County Show takes place on July 11 and 12.

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