RECORD-BREAKING numbers enjoyed the Machen Show over the weekend.
With the sun shining on a glorious day in Caerphilly more than 2,000 people enjoyed the range of attractions at the traditional rural country show.
Families visiting the show, in its 74th year, said it was ‘bigger and better’ than ever as they made the most of the craft stalls, local produce and competitions on display.
Kevin Stanworth, chairman of the Machen Show Society, said it had been a “fantastic” day thanks to the sunny weather, with a record breaking number of visitors and trade stands.
“The highlights for me have been the children’s races, the hawking display and seeing lots of exhibitions going on around the show ground,” he said.
“I have also enjoyed seeing the amount of people and everyone that I have spoken to has said they have enjoyed it.
“Traditional old fashioned family shows have something for everyone.”
He thanked everyone for attending and said they already had ‘special plans’ for next year’s 75th anniversary show.
He added: “We would also like to thank all the competitors and people that have come today from far and wide for their attendance, as without their support there would be no show.”
Families were also full of praise for this year’s show, which featured a donkey derby, a Ben Long falconry display, children’s races, vintage machinery and the Glamorgan mink hounds.
Other entertainment includes rural crafts and food market, trade stands, horticulture, rides, catering and a public bar.
Louise Soale and her husband Rorie, from Pontywaun near Cross Keys, brought their three-year-old son Iolo to the show.
“It’s been his first year and he’s had a whale of a time on the trampoline,” she said.
Gemma Hammacott, from Rudry, also visited the show with her three-year-old son Zac.
“It’s a really good fun day out,” she said.
“The horses are probably my favourite part as I’m a rider myself.”
She added: “It’s great that lots of people in the community get involved in the whole show.
“I like that there’s lots of local stalls as it brings everyone together.”
Sarah Brown, who was at the show with her partner Elliot Pitts, said: “It’s bigger and better than last year.”
Diane Brealey visited the show with her daughter Victoria and granddaughter Callia.
She said: “I loved the competitions and really enjoyed the kids running with the dogs.
“I prefer the layout this year too with the stalls on the other side of the field.”