Crowds flocked to the 100th Tendring Hundred Show to enjoy a celebration of all things farming.
To mark its centenary event the show, which first began in 1899, has this year chosen a theme of 100 Shows – Then and Now examining how agriculture has changed over the years.
Shiny new modern tractors sat alongside historic steam-powered machinery while the livestock show, finding the best sheep and cattle, has remained virtually unchanged.
Bumper crowds poured into Lawford House Park yesterday for the day-long show, with the bright sunshine and warm weather expected to boost visitor numbers even further.
Organisers believe around 22,000 people came through the gates over the course of the day.
Other activities included donkey rides, bouncy inflatables and a large food hall selling everything from breads to yoghurts.
In the show ring dog agility and dancing display teams, heavy horses, majorettes and classic cars wowed the spectators.
Angie Osborne, from Leavenheath, said: “We have had an absolutely brilliant time.
“They have covered the theme really well and it’s good for people to see how farming life has moved on.
“We have some old Ford tractors and seeing the modern John Deeres with air conditioning and radios was completely alien.”
Daughter Ellie, 11, added: “We come from a farming family so it was good to see the old tractors and the new machinery.”
Judith Hooks from Mistley, who was with grandchildren Lily, nine, Bobbie, eight and Jessica, six, said: “It’s lovely and the weather makes it all the better.
“There seems to be more here this year and there is a lot to keep children amused.”
Jessica said her favourite part of the shoe was the donkeys, while Lily enjoyed the dog agility show and Bobbie the giant rabbits.
Tom Glover, show spokesman, said: “We had a wonderful day to mark our 100th show.
“The show ground was bathed in summer sunshine and there was a fantastic atmosphere as thousands came out to see the many animals, trade stands and displays. There really was something for everyone.
“The day and the continued success of this show is testament to both the local farming community who volunteer their time to put it on and the loyal support from the public.
“We estimate we have around 250 volunteers who put over 2,500 hours pf their free time into the planning and execution of the show.”
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