THE Chagford Show is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year of the Dartmoor farming community and this year's event certainly lived up to its reputation as one of the best in the county.

The one-day agricultural show, which has been established for more than 111 years, drew a bumper crowd of 10,000 to the showground on the banks of the River Teign — exceeding the record-breaking 8,000 visitors last year.

There were 50 different entrants for the livestock classes, showing more than 300 animals, 245 horse and show jumping competitions with 400 plus entries while the flower and horticulture hall had to be increased to 5,000 square feet to satisfy demand. The food hall tempted a large number of visitors, with a tempting display of local produce, while the craft section was also popular on the day.

The vintage section showcased a fine selection of vehicles, pumps, tractors, cars, motorcycles — all over 25 years.

In the main ring entertainment included the Hampshire Constabulary's Marching Band, the Dartmoor Hill Pony Display team, a parade of Mid Devon Foxhounds, terrier racing, a cavalcade of vintage tractors and cars and so much more. Some of the other highlights around the ground were the Hay Pole demonstration, and Willy's Jeep (a Second World War) American Jeep, which was restored for $35,000 in California and down for the day from Dorset.

The North Dartmoor Beagles also proved a colourful and vibrant sight in the pony field. There was certainly more than enough to entertain for all age groups. Music and dance was provided by such groups as the Tinners Morris Dancers, Mariners Away, the Ploughboys Jazz Band and Hot Club du Square. Even Mr Punch and his Judy made an appearance.

Ken Drew, the show president, in his address said that the event was one of the best shows in the South West.

He said: 'Chagford Show is one of the highlights of our social calendar and the success of the show is dependent on the hard work of so many, the committee, doctor, vet, farrier, and all the other volunteers who are too many to mention and who work tirelessly all year, to enable the show to take place. I believe there is something here for everyone. Livestock, equestrian events, agriculture, horticulture, food and trade stands, selling everything that you could possibly want.

'The livestock is a credit to our farmers, who, under sometimes very difficult circumstances, produce some of the best food in the world.'

Mr Drew added that the encouragement of the younger generation is vital as 'they are the future of Chagford Show and our local community.'

Show secretary Sally Hutchings hoped on the day to see an increase on last year's gate of around 8,000. She, like the president, also praised the 160 plus volunteers who helped to make the show such a success.

Sally told the Times: 'We really do rely on our marvellous volunteers do to all the jobs, without which the show would not be the same; whatever we ask them to do they just get on with it. Somehow it just all pulls together. Seeing a show like today and so many people enjoying themselves makes it all the hard work and effort worthwhile.'