FAMILIES and their four-legged friends basked in sunshine as they soaked up the atmosphere at the South Suffolk Show.

Thousands of visitors flocked to the popular annual event in Ampton, near Bury St Edmunds, yesterday to enjoy the best of the Suffolk countryside.

Dramatic displays by birds of prey kept the crowds entertained as they watched hawks, falcons, owls and eagles at close-hand.

Ice creams, fairground rides, side stalls and vintage farm machinery offered fun for all the family as guests travelled from across the county to enjoy the traditional day, staged by the South Suffolk Agricultural Association

Geoff Bailes, secretary of the association, said: “It has been a very good year. People like the relaxed atmosphere and there are a lot of different attractions and displays.

“It’s nice to see the public enjoying themselves and learning about the countryside.”

The Welsh Axemen put on a spectacular display, using razor-sharp blades to compete against each other in an axe race. Dexterity and obedience were also on show as the Suffolk Gundog Club and the Terrier Racing Team showed off their talents.

Chloe Cawston, 13, had travelled with her family from Rede to enjoy the line-up of traditional skills and cutting-edge technology. “It’s really fun because there are lots of things to see,” she said. “Everyone is enjoying themselves and the fun fair is good.”

Horses, sheep and cattle were put through their paces in the competition classes while handlers, riders and show jumpers also put their best feet forward to impress the judges.

Jules Unwin, 68, was enjoying a ringside seat with her family as they soaked up the sunshine and atmosphere of the day.

“It’s a nice day out,” she said. “There is something for everybody. It is good to come out in the fresh air and have a lovely time.”

Some of the region’s finest foods were also on display to tempt the taste buds, alongside crafts and countryside accessories.

Simon Lawrence, 35, from Horringer, visits the show every year.

He was watching the private driving classes with his children Eva, six, and Owen, three.

“The children love seeing the animals and horses,” he said. “It is just a nice little local agricultural show.”

n For full results, see tomorrow’s East Anglian Daily Times.