Thousands at soggy farm show

Despite fears the event would be turned into a mud bath, the main attractions and judging events went ahead on schedule on Saturday, with only a few entrants and stalls cancelling because of the weather.

Organisers accepted attendance was down on last year's estimate of 15,000.

Show president Bob Bolton said its success did not depend on one year.

"Even on a sunny day the finances of running a one-day show are always precarious and we never hope to make a large profit from it, but today inevitably the finances are going to look a little disappointing," he said.

"However, if we can maintain interest in it we have succeeded. We are a healthy society we own the land we're on so we have a good financial base."

Those who were able to attend were entertained by events ranging from a synchronised motorcycle display by the Royal Signals' White Helmets team and the sodden ground did nothing to slow down the inter hunt relay.

Visitors were given the chance to see vultures and eagles at several falconry shows, along with music from Newport Town Band and various parades.

The show, which has been held since 1890, is one of the highlights of the rural events calendar with top livestock and horse breeders, pedigree dog owners and horticulturalists from around the Midlands competing.

Newport mayor Glyn Gratton said: "Because the weather has been disappointing attendance is down, but I am amazed how many people were there and the atmosphere was fantastic. People were ignoring the weather and enjoying themselves which was great.

"The committee of stewards made a good decision by going ahead with the show and this gave people the confidence to put on their wellies and head out."

Indoor events such as the food hall and horticultural show attracted large crowds and most trade stalls experienced a consistent flow of visitors.

Organiser Clare Mainwaring said she thought the show had gone well despite the weather.

"Closing it down was never an option," she said.

By Oliver Clark