The sun shines on Devon

Bumper numbers visited this year’s Devon County Show and enjoyed a traditional Show with large numbers of livestock, great food and drink, wonderful flowers and gardens, entertainment in six rings and the best weather in years.

Highlights included Chariots of Fire, a team of ponies who leapt through fiery hoops, the grand parade of livestock in the main ring, falconry on horseback and traditional crafts and country pursuits.

In the avenues visitors were entertained by Titan the robot, marching bands, Jonty Depp, Lenny the Land-train, live bands and country dancing.

All three Show days attracted more visitors than last year who enjoyed the first days of summer celebrating life in Devon. For the second year running, children went free on Saturday when accompanied by an adult.

Show secretary Ollie Allen said: “There was a great buzz from the very start of the Show. It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying a relaxed day together.”

Last year more than 91,000 people came to the Show; this year Ollie Allen said she was confident they were going to top that number but would wait until all ticket receipts had been counted before giving a final total.

Next year’s Show will be held at Westpoint, Exeter on May 19-21.