THE sheep section at Bellingham Show is always hotly contested by farmers from all across the district and beyond, and this year was no exception.

The competitive nature of the show will make success all the sweeter for Andrew and Caroline Hunter of the Steel at Bellingham, who cleaned up at the show and won a swathe of awards.

The Hunters, supported by Kevin Ridley of Wark, took home prizes for Leicester, inter-breed, and Mule champions as well as being named reserve champion in inter-breed and Blackface sections.

Andrew said: “Our Leicester was champion and inter-breed champion. She’s by a Kentmere Hall Tup.

“Our Mule lamb was champion Mule and reserve inter-breed, and she’s by a G 34 Midlock tup, and we had reserve Blackface champion.

“We’re chuffed to bits, it’s been a tremendous day. It’s been a real team effort.”

The show also had a thriving equestrian section, with a big increase in the number of entries over last year.

Sarah Nixon, Bellingham Show’s chief steward for the equine classes, said: “We’ve had a hundred more horse entries this year, as well as more than 20 children with lots of very competitive parents! Some of the children competing are as young as two.

“It’s been a very good standard this year.”

The show’s fell race also had a good turnout, with Johnny Maloy of Ambleside running club winning the race with a time of 27.55, closely followed by Ben Heathcote of Tynedale Harriers, who came in with a time of 32.16.

The traditional side of the show was complemented well by a wide variety of activities and entertainments, with the highlight undoubtedly being a spectacular performance by Broke FMX motocross stunt display team.

The duo pulled off some impressive stunts to wow the crowd, despite high winds forcing them to change the layout of their equipment for safety reasons.

The inter-hunt challenge was also popular with spectators, as was the Cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling.

Despite the wind, the weather remained good throughout the day, leaving the large crowds plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the activities on offer.