EARLY showers cleared for a day of sunny spells for the annual 129th Malton Show.

Held at Scampston Park, the agricultural show included a new line-up of attractions and lay-out designed to make it more accessible for visitors.

This year’s event was also held on an earlier date - the first in the show season - attracting record numbers of livestock entries.

Show chairman Michael Cleary said: “Everyone puts in huge efforts to make sure there is something for everyone, and this year there certainly was.

“We are very pleased with the numbers that have attended, includ - ing the number of families who have enjoyed a value for money day- out. The feedback to the new lay-out and events has been very positive and is something we can build on for future years.

This year the show included a children’s showground trail run by the show’s nominated charity Ryedale Special Families, as well as children’s races and games.

Entertainment was provided by the MSI motor stunt show, Elaine Hill Sheep Dog display, Malton School Jazz Band and Whitby Falconers, along with artist and blacksmith demonstrations.

A “clear round” showjumping competition in a special ring took place throughout the day, followed by an evening showjumping compe - tition in the main ring.

The show also included a Malton and Norton Traders’ Tent for the first time to showcase local inde - pendent businesses and saw the launch the Regional Sheep Breed - ers Championship, run in conjunc - tion with Driffield, Ryedale and Thornton-le-Dale shows.

Mr Cleary said: “I would like to thank everyone involved in run - ning Malton Show, including the committee, and to all our sponsors especially the lead sponsor BATA.”