THE weather has rarely been kind to the picturesque Roman Wall Show in recent years.

But that all changed this year, with the popular sheep show taking place in glorious sunshine, combined with the stunning backdrop of Hadrian’s Wall to make for a memorable day out.

In a bid to attract a wider clientele, this year’s show featured an array of craft and food stalls, which proved to be extremely popular with visitors.

Organiser Stewie Weatherson said: “I think the best thing about this year has been the diversity. The families have really enjoyed the stalls and things. It’s been a really good year, a really strong showing. It’s been a sheep show for years and it will always be a big sheep show, but it’s nice to see so many people enjoying it.”

Alongside the new attractions were old favourites in the industrial tent along with the Roman Wall Fell Race – a gruelling 4.4 mile race featuring a climb of 620ft.

This year’s race was won by Will Robson of Whitley Bay who, despite running the race for the first time, managed to complete the course in an impressive time of 29.02.

Will said: “It’s really good. It’s a bit of a different run, it’s such a scenic course. It’s a nice local race and you get to see some of the up and coming local talent.”

The show also saw the return of the fiercely competitive male baking competition, with the brief this year requiring an animal-themed cake.

The top prize was claimed by Philip Teasdale of Haydon Bridge for his bumble bee-inspired design. Philip said: “It was a last minute thing! I only did it last night, but it’s nice to win.”

Of course, the show remains the largest sheep show in England, and all classes saw a number of impressive entries. The overall prize went to the Archer family at Carry House with a tup lamb, which also won the Crossing Leicester championship. Reserve champion went to M. Barnett of Gilside.

Martyn Archer said: “We’re very pleased to win, it’s always nice to do well. It wasn’t big this year, but it was very good quality-wise.”

Showgoers were also treated to a vibrant dog show, with novelty classes such as the dog with the waggiest tail and the dog who looked most like its owner!