THE much-loved Northumberland County Show returned yesterday after a two-year break.
Tens of thousands from the North East and beyond flocked to the family-friendly agricultural event, staged at Bywell, near Stocksfield, on Friday (June 3).
The sun shone as visitors enjoyed hundreds of competitive livestock classes for horses, cattle, sheep, alpacas, pigs, goats, fur and feather, baking and home crafts and many more.
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At this year's show, which coincides with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee weekend, there were also events such as Tug of War, Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling, and a vintage tractor parade. Hunt dogs were on show, as well as birds of prey.
Newcastle Diamonds Speedway team were on hand to thrill crowds with noisy, high-speed, high-octane racing, and the giant tortoise paddock, a new addition to the show, proved popular with many.
There were over 350 trade and catering stands at the event, as well as live music and amusement rides.
In the afternoon, crowds gathered at the main arena for the grand parade. Limousin Cow Upperfrydd-Power, owned by Thor Atkinson, was awarded Champion of Champions.
Many were delighted to see the return of the show, which is usually held on Bank Holiday Monday, after it was unable to go ahead in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic.
David Carr, the show's president, said: "It's amazing to have everybody back here and have a marvellous day weather-wise.
"We could not have asked for a better return really."
He added: "The standard of all the animals here today is probably as high as it's ever been."
Mark Scandle, Chairman of Tynedale Agricultural Society, echoed his comments.
"It's been absolutely brilliant," he said. "We have had an amazing crowd. Everyone is walking around with smiles on their faces.
"We are so pleased that people come and support us, from people who bring their cattle, the people who sponsor us, to the people that spend their hard-earned money to come here."
Carol Bates, from Sunderland, visited the event with her family.
"For a long, long time, we have come every year," she said. "We can all come together, and there's something for everybody to enjoy."
At the opening of the show, a minute's silence was held to remember those who have lost their lives in the last few years.
Attention will now turn to next year's show, with former president Harry Mole MBE explaining that planning for their next event begins as soon as next week.
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