IN PICTURES: Rain holds back as The Tockwith Show delivers another hit

Organizers expect around 7,500 people to attend the popular event west of York, down a thousand from last year’s sweltering summer Sunday.

The ground was a little muddy in places, which may have put some off, but those who came enjoyed one of the best little country shows in the county.

Chris Lightley, secretary of the Tockwith District Agricultural Society, said while the rains had hampered the set-up of the show, it had enjoyed “excellent turnout” from visitors, exhibitors and traders.

“It’s going to be a brilliant day,” he told the press at lunchtime.

A main attraction this year were the giant tortoises, which made their debut at the fair.

Both children and adults enjoyed seeing them, which led to other children’s attractions such as a Tockwith beach and children’s area.

Adrian Graham from Lincoln presented his Aldabra giant tortoises, native to Mauritius.

Adrain said: “We were seen by the show’s organizers at another event and they asked us to come here. We did Otley and Malton. The reception is fantastic. Many people are really fascinated by them. You can imagine having a small pet turtle at home.

“You don’t normally get to see them live outside of a zoo, so the chance to see them is special.”

Katie Wiggins from Katie Sweep of Green Hammerton has been a chimney sweep for 15 years and says she comes to the Tockwith Show every year.

Attending the show helps get bookings ahead of the fall and winter seasons when the bonfires are lit again.

“We’re busier than ever,” she said, saying the energy crisis has increased demand for wood stoves and they’re helping keep chimneys clean and safe.

Nick Taylor of Wass Farm, Ampleforth enjoyed selling his charcuterie for the first time.

He had been to the fair before as a visitor and thought he would give it a try. Although it is still in its infancy, business has been going well.

Ken Bartley and his wife Irene from Boroughbridge are regulars and will be displaying their classic cars which this year included a ‘Simon Templar’ Volvo which they have owned for 50 years.

Lennon Masters, 5, and Grandma Jennifer from Hillam enjoyed their first visit, especially seeing the pigs and donkeys.

“It’s great how kids can interact with the animals,” said Jennifer.

Andy Beadle from Harrogate enjoyed the dog shows with his big Newfoundland dog. He said the event is always popular with dog lovers and the dog shows are also popular.

Richard from Copmanthorpe enjoyed the horsemanship demonstrations, show jumping and viewing of the different breeds.

James, a retired pig farmer from Tockwith, added that this year’s show had the biggest and best pig show he could remember ever seeing.