The skittle game sounds fun!
I have only ever been to one show, and entered pet class. It was fun, but my hamster was uncharacteristically shy that day, spending a lot of time up my sleeve! I think she may have been a bit scared by all the noise and people.
I was advised that for a first show pet class could be best but it is up to you. I was also told that ANY hamster can enter the main show BUT that the judges are looking for for a lot more than from pet class
I don't know where Lymm is so doubt I'll be there!
I plan to go to Andover but no idea if I'm taking Sweep yet. If so he will go in pet class - this is mainly cos he's only just tamed, but also because there is no way we can get there for the morning!
Oh, for the main show I believe hamsters have to be in a show pen, instead of their carrier. You could contact the head of whichever area you are in (so Northen, Southern or Midlands club) and ask them. They can give you info about show pens etc