Agricultural shows boom across the UK as record crowds flock to the fields

Once the preserve of farmers, now the dog trials, sheep shearing and food stalls are starting to appeal to everyone

One of the highlights of the Great Yorkshire Show for Bridlington farmer Geoff Riby - other than his ram winning the Beltex male champion in the sheep class competition - was watching Lorenzo the Flying Frenchman perform in the main ring at the Harrogate show ground.

Riby has exhibited at the fair since 1972 and has seen this annual event evolve from an industry trade fair promoting tractors to the sort of festival that would feature one of France's most skilled equestrians on the bill.