Families flock to county for fun events

Thousands of families flocked to the region this weekend for a feast of fun which saw record numbers braving the elements for a whole host of events.

But drama hit the 100th Newport Show on Saturday when a man in his 60s had to be airlifted to hospital after a tractor rolled over him.

The man, who has not been named, was treated for suspected chest injuries at Chetwynd Deer Park, before being flown to hospital in Birmingham.

An ambulance, Community First Responder and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were dispatched to the scene shortly before 3.45pm on Saturday.

Claire Thomas, West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: "On arrival at the scene crews found a man, believed to be in his 60s, who had been injured following an incident involving a tractor. It is reported the tractor had rolled over the man.

"Crews treated the man on scene for suspected injuries to his chest, pelvis and shoulder. He was given pain relief at the scene before being immobilised using a spinal board.

"The man was airlifted to Selly Oak Hospital for further assessment and treatment."

Organisers said the rest of the show went without a hitch.

Almost 8,000 people attended the two-day Rally in the Valley steam engine event in Severn Park, Bridgnorth.

And despite the wet weather yesterday 3,000 women took part in the Cancer Research Race for Life at Shrewsbury's West Mid Showground, supporting friends and family who had suffered cancer.

John Warner, Shropshire Star weatherman, said Saturday's events escaped the rain but those taking place yesterday were not so lucky.

He said: "Shropshire escaped most of the showers on Saturday as we were in a clearer slot than the surrounding areas.

"There were showers late on but most of the events would have finished by then.

"Heavy showers and up to half and inch of rain fell during storms yesterday. North Shropshire seemed to be the worst hit.

He added: "This week looks set to remain unsettled and the wettest days will be Tuesday and Thursday. Temperatures will be about 18C (64F)."