A RURAL show at one of the country's most scenic venues proved to be a truly family affair as seasoned exhibitors carried off titles as their proud relatives looked on.

Rosedale Show president Francis Richardson, who has showed his heavy horses at the event in the heart of North York Moors for 40 years, watched with delight as his son, Mark, scooped several cups in the main ring, while sheep farmer Steven Kirby's father and grandfather applauded as he sealed another supreme champion award in his most successful season.

Mr Richardson said his family had been competing at country shows since landing a title with a Hackey in 1898 and the success with his 12-week-old foal, Georgie Girl, upheld the tradition.

He said: "To still have the number of classes at a small show like this is fantastic. Heavy horses finished working the fields 50 years ago."

While Mr Kirby's family started farming at Ainderby Steeple, near Northallerton about 200 years ago, his grandfather, Robert, said: "I'm very proud of him. I gave him two ewes when he was 11 and he has never looked back."

Show secretary Malcolm Leckenby said the event, which overcame forecasts of poor weather to attract a good turn-out, was maintained by a dedicated team of families and individuals.

For former village caretaker John Dent, 73, the show involved four days of volunteering, and being on the showground at 6am on the event day, while members of the Dring family travelled from London to help run the show.