AN agricultural show in the Durham dales drew a bumper crowd – marking the beginning of a return to normal after Covid.

The annual Weardale Show in St John’s Chapel, cancelled last year because of the pandemic, featured the usual array of riding competitions, produce, crafts and other entertainment.

Show chairman Greg Dalton said: "We were blessed with lovely weather and had a bumper crowd with people coming from far afield.

"There were worries earlier in the year about whether we would be able to go ahead this year, but we have managed the crowd and with it being open air makes it better still.

"It's great to see people back in the countryside and things more on a normal footing.

"As a proper rural agricultural show there was something for everybody and it was great to see them back in the countryside."

Among the attractinos were a display with a sheepdog and geese, vintage tractors, a free climbing wall for children and wildlife show, as well as some alpacas.

Mr Dalton: "It's the biggest crowd I have seen in a good few years. I would like to thank all the helpers and volunteers, who without their hard work the show wouldn't be the success it is."