THERE'S always a lot to pack into the show in one day — and for the thousands who flocked to Dog Marsh Bridge Fields there was much to entertain.

With doubts that the event would go on because of the weather it was a great relief to everyone involved that the 112th Chagford Show went ahead. It was thanks to the work 'behind the scenes' of the show committee and the many volunteers that the standards were as high as ever for this popular annual event on the banks of the River Teign.

Along with the traditional livestock shows there was also the horses, ponies, jumping, driving, Young Farmers' Club, trade stands, a dog show, children's pets, flower show, Mid Devon foxhounds, terrier racing, vintage section, the Imps motorcycle display team, Bob Hogg's sheep dog display, a tug-of-war, Cogs and Wheels Ladies Morris Dancing and so much more.

Show secretary Sally Hutchings told the Times: 'We are very pleased and relieved we went ahead especially as many local shows, due to the weather, had to be postponed or cancelled. This has affected many of the entries, who have not had the opportunity before the Chagford Show, to take part in competitions.

'We've had lots of phone calls in the last few days from people worried whether the show was on or not because of the weather and when we said it was still on the response from people was that they were 'absolutely delighted'and 'fantastic.'

'It's also good to know that all the time and hard work put in by so many people who volunteer has paid off and come to fruition. I know this is very appreciated especially by all the entrants.'

With many shows in Devon and Cornwall being hit by the unseasonal elements it has made the organisation and logistics difficult for organisers, especially in the livestock and horse sections.

But it did not stop more than 690 entries in the cattle, sheep and horses.

Sally, who is in her ninth year as show secretary, added: 'This year we are expecting roughly the same numbers as last year but we would have had more if we had known other shows were going to cancel. Unfortunately we could not always accept late entries, and I hate saying no and I will always do my best to get someone in their classes and try and keep people happy. It is perhaps a testament to this show that we manage to get it right 95 per cent of the time.'

Last year it was the West of England School for the Blind in Exeter that benefited as the show's chosen charity - this year it will be Devon Air Ambulance.