THERE were so many highlights in the 103rd Okehampton Show that one visitor could not believe how much was crammed into a one day show.

Very much rooted in its rural traditions there was much to see for all ages. In the entertainment ring alone, compered by Tony Beard, visitors could enjoy diverse entertainments from the Sheep Show, West Country Falconry, Cogs and Wheels/Tinners Morris Dancers, the Fun Dog Show and so much more.

With arts, crafts, a Devon Food Hall, livestock, tug of war, trade stands, horse and dog shows, the World Longhorn Lamb Shearing championships, OCRA childrens sports, the Devon Beekeepers Annual Honey Show there was no excuses for anyone not to be entertained on the day.

SHOW organiser Gilly Oliver was absolutely delighted how everything has gone this year.

She had no complaints with the weather which Gilly said has been perfect, ideal for the people and ideal for all the animals. Not too hot.

An example of how well the show was doing, she said was in the cattle section. We have had a new Welsh Black cattle section this year and the judge who came down from Wales is absolutely thrilled how its gone. So much so he has offered to give us substantial help for next year to increase the entrants, said Gilly.

Large crowds, high standard of entries in the livestock and the impressive entertainment made it an event to remember.

The event has seen more visitors than last year and last year was a bumper show. People just keep coming through the gates and Ive had people ringing me today, asking what time the show closes!

Everyone has been saying they have been very impressed and there is a lot of first time visitors, which is great to see. One lady said she could not believe how much we have got into a one day show. I am very pleased.

Show president Peter Green said at the official opening in the main ring: The Okehampton Show is a wonderful example of a one day, traditional show, giving the general public a wide variety of countryside activities. It also shows how livestock is reared and looked after before ending up on the table. These shows must be kept alive.

I would especially like to say a big thank you to all the volunteers who put in so much time and effort to make the show what it is. Also thank you to all the exhibitors and officials.