West Mid Show 2009

Crowds of happy people shrugged off the grey skies and packed into the 120th West Mid Show today as the annual extravaganza kicked off in style.

See also: Video: Crowds out for West Mid Show

See more pics from the show in our gallery below and check today's Shropshire Star for full coverage.

The two-day showcase of agriculture and rural life - which regularly attracts about 50,000 visitors - opened at 9am at the Shrewsbury showground.

About 100 people got there early and entered the Berwick Road site in the first couple of minutes, with a steady flow following this morning.

Organisers remained upbeat despite gloomy weather and a few puddles, claiming yesterday's downpours had helped the show.

Commercial director Gary Tudor said: "We are extremely pleased to see so many people coming through the gates on the first day of the show.

"We have so much to offer visitors at this year's event and it is encouraging to see people of all ages enjoying themselves right from the start of day one.

"Yesterday's weather has had a great effect on the show as it has greened the grass beautifully."

Show chairman Annie Home-Dodd said: "I warmly welcome everyone to the 2009 show. What a unique show it is, being the 120th in our long history and particularly special for me as I have the honour of being its first ever lady chairman."

Among the first through the gates were Dave Turner, 23, and his partner Helen Price, 19, both of Shawbirch, Telford.

Mr Turner said: "The children are looking forward to seeing Titan the Robot, the horses and the motorbike display team."

By John Kirk and Tom Johannsen

Crowds line the cattle ring at this year's West Mid Show.

Celebrity chef Christophe Novelli on the showground.

Roy Edwards from Halfway House, pictured with his 1948 David Brown Leightweight Tug.

Horses and riders line up in the arena.

Janet Ireland from Baschurch with one of her Alpacas, Fudge.

Gwen Howell of rare breed pig farm 'Pigs in Clover', with her Mangalitza pig Marylin Monroe.

Young farmers preparing for their singing competition. From left are Luke Gill, Steve Butler and Gaz Williams.

Herefords being judged in the cattle ring.