VINTAGE tractors and monster trucks were among the attractions at the Essex Young Farmers’ Country Show.

The annual event took place yesterday and organisers were thrilled with the turn-out which was a third up on last year.

The show was held at Boyton Hall in Roxwell, near Chelmsford, and was organised by the 11 young farmers’ clubs from across Essex, with members aged between 16 and 26.

Show-goers avoided the downpours which affected other parts of the county to enjoy trade stands, a forestry area and craft exhibitions.

There were more than 400 exhibits, a farmers’ market, livestock displays, a food court and a horticultural tent.

Committee member Kate Smith said 15,000 people had been to the show compared to 10,000 in 2009.

“We are really pleased, it is a big increase on last year,” she said.

“I think because it has not rained this year more people have come and they have also stayed for longer.

“Often people are heading off by 3.40pm or 4pm but this year there were still crowds at 5.30pm.

“It was really nice to see.”

She added: “It has gone really well, we have had a few new and different things like the monster trucks.

“They have been in the main ring driving over cars and seem to have gone down well!

“People also really like the farming through the year display which showed what farmers do at different times in the calendar.

“Dingle Fingle the clown was also new this year and we had a steel band outside the bar which was really good.

“It has been so busy, everyone who came with a trade stand has been really pleased.”

Colchester Boys won the mens’ tug of war while the Maldon Girls landed first place in the ladies contest.

The show, which has been running for more than 30 years, took a week to set up at the rural site and will take organisers about another week to clear away.

The Essex Young Farmers’ Country Show 2011 is being planned for May 15 next year.