VISITORS flocked to the oldest country show in England at the weekend.

The first Wolsingham Show in 1763 was a cattle show and the livestock classes continue to be a major attraction for farmers and families at the County Durham event.

People turned out in their droves on Saturday and Sunday after last year’s event was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

However, this year organisers managed to pull off the event by following health and safety guidelines.

The event has only ever been cancelled before for the world wars and the foot-and-mouth epidemic.

It kicked off on Saturday for an agricultural day, with competitors from across the county exhibiting their prime cattle, sheep, horses, dogs, birds and small animals for judging.

There was also a craft tent, donkey rides, vintage vehicles, birds of prey, Diggerland, alpacas, and a dog agility show.

The event is one of three major shows in Weardale and had dozens of vegetables, plants, flowers, artwork and crafts on display in the industrial and horticultural tents.

On Sunday, country fair day featured a terrier and lurcher contest, Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling, a parade of hounds, clay pigeon shooting and a ferret show.

There was also line dancing and 60s and country and western music.

Horse fans also saw coloured horses, ridden hunters, riding ponies, driving classes and side saddle.