Rain throughout the previous day caused some problems for people setting up stands and marquees on the showfield, but organisers hauled in tonnes of stone and chippings before the gates opened yesterday to make the entrances passable.

And with the weather humid but dry throughout the day, show chairman Martin Blythe said the event was heading for a record attendance of around 16,000. He said: "I'm well pleased with the day. Where can you go for £6 and have a full day of entertainment from nine in the morning until dark and not need to spend another penny?

"No-one is going to be ripped off – the beer here is the same price as it is in the village pub. That typifies what we are all about."
Livestock was back after being hit by the foot and mouth restrictions last year and the show attracted more goat entries than any other recent event in the area.

Strong entries in the horticulture, produce and rural crafts' tents, together with around 150 trade stands gave showgoers plenty to see and do while in the main ring, Moto-Stunts International provided a breathtaking display of stunt riding. The show continued into the evening with a barbecue, children's sports and terrier racing.