SHOWERS and overcast skies did little to put off the crowds who poured into Kilnsey Show on Tuesday.

The marquees may have been a little more crowded than last year as people escaped the rain, and waterproof ponchos, boots and umbrellas were much in evidence as the ground in some places turned to mud.

But, spirits remained very high at the premier agricultural show of the Dales, everything went ahead as planned, and the high numbers of cattle were more than content on their straw beds undercover in their cosy marquee.

The crowds gathered with great enthusiasm around the sheep pens under the shadow of Kilnsey Crag to watch the judging, while cattle judging was just as popular. The junior handling classes were also a big hit.

Showjumping, showing and gymkhana games took place in the main arena, with the action in close up on a large screen, which was also used to great effect with the crag races.

Stallholders included Wharfedale RUFC and the team's fundraising hotdog stall, and Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue, and there were plenty of businesses selling all sorts from walking sticks, country clothing, quad bikes and even one stall optimistically selling sunglasses.

In the produce and handicrafts tent, there was much to see, including sticks, vegetables and floral displays.

The numbers of entries into the Victoria Sponge classes were as high as ever, and there was much imagination in the children's classes, including a snake made up of several pieces of veg, which won first prize, a marrow shaped into a three-toed sloth, in second place, and an aubergine penguin.

Harness racing, towards the end of the day, saw ten races with a good crowd staying on for the final. Overall winner was Wye Jonny, an horse owned and trained by John Wilson from the North East. He was ridden to victory by John's son George W Wilson.

The day finished with the speed sheep shearing; with the winner coming all the way from Wales to take part in the three counties competition.

Chris Windle, show chairman, said it had been a very good show with feedback being very positive.

"It was fine in the morning and everything went ahead; people enjoyed themselves and have said it was a cracking show; it did rain a bit, but we're in Yorkshire."

Numbers entering the cattle and sheep sections were very high with cattle judges commenting on the very high standard, said Mr Windle, while the junior judging classes also went down very well.

Results to follow.