HEAVY showers on days before the Mid Devon Show stopped for the event, enabling thousands to flock to the hugely-popular one day event.

The decision not to cancel was made and despite an odd spot of rain later in the day and a few muddy patches around the showground, the organisers were able to breathe a big sigh of relief.

Main ring attractions included spectacular motorcycle displays by the Royal Artillery, a grand parade of prizewinning livestock, Pony Club competitions.

Other main ring attractions included local town crier Frank Housam, Young Farmers' Club competitions and the Derby Midshipman Marching Band.

Also giving displays in the main ring were falconer, Jonathan Marshall and David Kennard with his sheepdog display.

Hounds from several different packs were part of the Parade of Hounds and there were also Heavy Horse competition winners.

There was vintage farm machinery, farm demonstrations, a food hall, craft marquee, flowers, YFC and youth marquees, a countryside area, music and dance pavilion and lots of trade stands.

Local MP, Angela Browning, was president of this year's show and presented prizes in the main ring.

She toured the showground and thanked exhibitors for helping to make the event such a success.

The Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Michael Langrish, made his first visit to the Show.

Show secretary, Carolyn Branton, said the Show had been "very successful" and thanked the volunteers who help to make it happen.

Winner of the Crediton Country Courier Bowl, presented to the Champion Devon, was four-year-old Bywood George, owned by Philip and Jo Perryman of Black Dog, Crediton.