Record numbers of people turned out for the UK's largest one day show in Nantwich

Wellies weren’t needed, waterproofs were dumped and umbrellas forgotten for this year’s Nantwich Show. The showground at Dorfold Park was bathed in warm sunshine when the gates were opened at the annual event. There may have been a few showers in the afternoon but nothing could dampen the spirits of the more than 30,000 people who attended the country’s largest one day show. As well as a record number of people, this year’s event was bigger and better with an extended showground, including a dedicated equestrian area. There was a thrilling display from the Bold Dog Lings Motorcycle Display Team as well as fly-fishing demonstrations, displays from Cheshire Beagles, the oldest group in the county dating back to 1854, food from local producers and a superb fruit and vegetable competition. There was also a popular Countryside Pursuits area which showcased skills of local craftsmen including wood turners and thatchers, as well as falconry display. Visitors also got some cooking tips from celebrity chef Richard Fox in the Cheshire East Pavilion.Adrian Lawrence, joint show secretary with his father George, said: ‘The show was excellent and we are really happy with how successful it was. There were a lot of new additions at this year’s show as well as a much bigger cheese tent and we’re thrilled with the results. ‘As well as a record number of people coming through the gates, we also had a record number of exhibitors and sponsors and things are growing every year. We’ve already started planning next year’s show and cannot wait for that.’It was, of course, the animals who stole the show at the popular agricultural event. Hundreds of cattle, sheep, poultry and dogs lined up for the judges. The show was also the location for the UK National Showcase of Brown Swiss Cattle. Bruce Johnston, chairman of cattle, said: ‘The standards were incredibly high and it just gets better and better at Nantwich. To have such a prestigious showcase as the Brown Swiss was fantastic and we were incredibly proud to be hosting that. ‘This is a show that really allows the public to get close to the animals too which is important.’ Two farmers who were celebrating success were father and son David and Joe Lewis. The pair collected several rosettes winning first prize in all five classes. Despite it being the first time they had entered, they took home a total of 13 awards, including Reserve Supreme Sheep Champion. David, 46, said: ‘I can’t believe how well we have done. It all started as a bit of a hobby and Joe only started doing it about five years ago. I think we might start taking it a bit more seriously now. ‘We’re so pleased with the judges’ decision and I think we’ll be coming back next year.’There was also good news for Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre, near Tarporley, after two of their horses were awarded prizes. Cotebrook Beth, which was named Supreme Champion at last year’s event, was named Reserve Champion while Cotebrook Charlie’s Spirit finished second in the two-year old category.

A big part of the show was the International Cheese Awards. There were a record 3,230 entrants - a 17 per cent increase on last yearA big part of the show was the International Cheese Awards. There was a record 3,230 entrants - a 17 per cent increase on last year - hoping to attract the attention of the judges in the giant marquee at the ground. There were plenty of accolades for local firms including Crewe-based David Williams Cheese, Nantwich’s Joseph Heler and Collier Powerful Welsh Cheddar made in North Wales.There were also performances from talented junior dancers Chloe Hewitt and AJ Pritchard in the cheese tent as well as appearances by Hollyoaks star John Pickard who judged the winner of the Cheese Lovers’ Trophy. Coronation Street star turned cheesemaker, Sean Wilson, was also in attendance.

Plans are already underway for next year's event which will take place on Wednesday, July 27th, 2011. To keep up-to-date visit nantwichshow.co.uk.