Crowds enjoy Minsterley Show in the sunshine

Thousands of people of all ages flocked to Shropshire's oldest agricultural show for a traditional day out featuring livestock competitions, equestrian displays and carnival floats.

Visitor numbers were up at Minsterley Show on Saturday as the 137th annual extravaganza attracted more people than the 13,000 who went last year – taking advantage of the afternoon summer sunshine.

Competitors, exhibitors and families enjoyed a full programme of events at the Lea Cross showground, near Shrewsbury.

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Organisers said they were pleased with the turnout after some other shows in the area had to be cancelled this year due to the dismal weather.

Visitors enjoyed warm weather and sunny spells in the afternoon with ice cream stands doing a roaring trade.

Farmer Charlie Sandells, who became show chairman last year, hailed the event a success and thanked supporters and organising committee members for their hard work.

"It's been going really well and it's very busy," he said."We had about 13,000 visitors last year and it's up on that this year.

"The weather wasn't very kind in the morning but it's been drying out nicely.

"I think the highlight for me has been the fact that it's been so busy, so the show's been a success.

"We have a hard-working committee and after Saturday we will have a few weeks off before we start doing preparations for next year's show."

Rachel Williams, show spokeswoman, said the turnout was 'brilliant' and people seemed to be enjoy the show, in particular the animals on display including sheep, goats, horses and ponies.

Attractions included the Pony Club mounted games, Olympic-themed children's races, a carnival float competition, a dog show, a funfair, vintage tractors, classic cars and quad bike rides.

Organisers said another highlight was the Elaine Hill dog display team.