ORGANISERS of this year’s Dorset County Show are celebrating after thousands of visitors once again flocked through the gates.

It is thought around 60,000 people visited the Dorchester Showground over the weekend, taking advantage of the bright spells of sunshine.

Show secretary Richard Cuzens said whilst they only had rough estimates, early indications suggested they had matched last year’s total.

Speaking as the event came to a close today, he said: “It’s been a remarkable day.

“We’re just over the moon with so many people having smiles on their faces.”

Mr Cuzens said the show provided something new for visitors each year, which came across well in the feedback they had received.

He said: “People loved it.

“I think the ice cream man will be the happiest man on the site today.”

The show, which celebrated its 175th anniversary, featured a familiar line-up of favourites, from Titan the Robot to ferret racing.

For those with a penny to spend, the range of goods on offer ranged from freshly made pies to brand new tractors.

The Royal Signals motorcycle display team the White Helmets took centre-stage in the main ring, performing a series of daredevil stunts to keep the crowd on the edge of their seat.

This was complemented before and after by showjumping events and a vintage tractor display.

Other events taking place around the site included cattle judging and sheep judging. The countryside arena also played host to a dog and duck show.

Sunday's harvest service, which was filmed by the BBC’s Songs of Praise, attracted more than 300 people and featured an appearance from presenter John Craven.

Kara Harris, from Dorchester, attended the show on Saturday with family and friends.

She said: “It’s the highlight of Dorchester’s year as far as I’m concerned.

“There’s always something different every year added onto the show besides the regular ones we enjoy seeing.”

In addition to those visiting for leisure, others had a competitive reason for being at the show with a number of winners declared throughout the weekend.

Dinah Lindon-Critchley, from Blooming Hill Plants, had good reason to celebrate after picking up a gold award in the Floral and Gardening Pavilion.

She said: “It’s very good. I like to get something like silver but gold is much better. It means I’m doing something right.”

Dinah said she had returned to the show after a two-year gap.

She said: “It’s a weekend out. I love the people. I love the show.

“Now we have moved near Sherborne, I have no excuse not to be here.”

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