FROM pygmy goats to ferret racing, medieval jousting and birds of prey, Great Harwood Show left a crowd of more than 10,000 thoroughly entertained.

The event, held on the New Showground on Harwood Lane, attracted a bumper Bank Holiday crowd yesterday.

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Organisers hailed the 148th show a success, and were particularly pleased to see a large number of families.

By noon, traffic was backing up towards Hyndburn Bridge and the overflow car parks were in use.

Among the attractions were a multitude of livestock shows featuring, horses, cattle, sheep and poultry.

The main arena saw The Knights of the Damned perform jousting and Reiver Rebels Flyball team and Mellor Dog School put on a fun dog display.

There was a parade of Ayrshire calves and Lancashire police dogs and horses were introduced to the crowd before the tug of war final.

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Stirring music was provided by Accrington Pipe Band and a new 100-stall market also supported the event.

Chairman of the organising committee, Richard Hanson, said: “The whole event is only made possible by the dedication and energy of committee members and volunteers who all contribute so much to the show’s success.”

Geoff Hanson, 87, had been chairman of the show for 50 years and has now taken up the role of president.

He said: “I’m so pleased the show continues as other agricultural shows in the area have gone by the wayside.”

Michelle Brown, from Hapton, attended the show with partner John and her daughters Evie, eight, and Isabella, three.

The family had entered their Dogue de Bordeaux, Henderson, in the short hair dog show, where he won the runners-up rosette.

She said: “This is the first time we’ve been to the show and everyone’s thoroughly enjoyed it.

“It’s been a joy for the children to see all the different animals and we’re really proud of Henderson winning a prize.”

Julie Ramsden, from Whalley, took her sons, George, aged 10, and eight-year-old Connor.

She said: “It’s been a really memorable day.

“The lads enjoyed watching the tug of war competition and getting close to the animals.

“I think shows like this are also educational for the children because they learn about farming and livestock.”