GALLERY: 'Stunning' turnout as Hadleigh Show returns after enforced break

The show had been forced into a two-year break due to Covid but made a return this Saturday (May 21).

The only other time the show was forced to stop was during the Second World War.

Cows and horses were amongst the animals taking centre stage. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Plenty of animals were on show in Hadleigh. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Mia and Halby. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

The crowds flocked back to the town and were blessed with sunny and warm weather.

People of all ages and families were spotted amongst the crowds taking in shows, tasting the local food and drink on offer, and soaking up the atmosphere.

This was the 181st running of the show, which dates back to the mid-19th century.

Treasurer of Hadleigh Farmers Agricultural Association, Charles Course, said implementing advanced ticket sales-only really helped the day run smoothly and will be something that the show continues in the future.

Freddie and Louise enjoying the show. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

The Hadleigh show has become a staple of the yearly calendar. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

A variety of disciplines and competitions took place in the May sunshine. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

He added: "It's been great, it's worked fantastically, we've had a stunning turnout with a lot of people saying how pleased they are to come back to the show.

"We don't quite know the numbers we got at the moment but we are certainly very close to a record number of people.

"The weather has been just about perfect for it.

"We're really pleased to have support from the trade stands and the competitors that have brought their stock and horses to come and compete.

"All very positive feedback from the people here at the show.

"A lot of people are really pleased to be back seeing people and seeing friends.

There were plenty of drinks from local suppliers on offer at the show. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Tina Foulds from the jam shed, one of many local businesses attending the show. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Toby also enjoying the four-wheels! (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Grace testing out a quad bike, one of many vehicles on display at the show. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Sam Ablett and Sioban Marrson Cheese and Pie Man. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Michelle and Charles Garnham Deep Kills Chocolate. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Shelagh and Martin Smith Citron Presse. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Another youngster taking part in one of many competitions throughout the day. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

There was competitions for all ages at the show. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Lucie Paul and Debbie Willis. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

A group of horses awaiting judgement from officials. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

One horse getting an inspection from the judges. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Another competitor is led around the ring. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

The only other time the Hadleigh show had to be stopped was during the Second World War. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

A variety of different competitions took place in the sunshine. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Chloe, Helen and Emily. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Erin Deacon. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Aston and George Ridgewell. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Harry Sinclair. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

There were plenty of farm machinery and vehicles on display at the show. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

The show is back after a two-year Covid inflicted absence. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

There were plenty of sheep out and about at the show. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)