THOUSANDS of visitors flocked to a Hampshire market town over the weekend for a day of agricultural fun.

The Romsey Show, billed as the biggest one-day show in the south, featured everything from horse competitions to dog displays.

There were queues of around an hour and a half to get into the show, which has been running since 1842 and is one of the oldest of its kind in England.

Now in its 175th year, the extravaganza at Broadlands Estate included more than 700 horses and livestock competing in different competitions.

New attractions included a dog and duck display, Falcon Village, plus the humorous Mole Show and Sheep Show.

TV archaeologist Dr Phil Harding was this year’s president and visitors were able to take part in activities run by Wessex Archaeology, challenging budding archaeologists to guess the age of pottery finds and identify artefacts.

There were also demonstrations from some of the county’s top chefs, as well as a special Kids Kitchen and food outlets serving everything from Mexican to Thai cuisine.

Susie James, one of the organisers, told the Daily Echo: “The weather held fantastically – we were all waiting with bated breath.

“It was a very successful day and it felt like a very strong turnout. I think people support us no matter what the weather is, which is great.

“There was a record number of cattle entries and the cattle committee were absolutely overjoyed.

“Dr Phil Harding brought a wonderful feel to the show and it was lovely to see.

“We have 300 volunteers who make the show happen – it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come.”

In a statement on Facebook, organisers said: “As the sun sets over the show and the flag is lowered to the dulcet tones of the Michelmersh Silver Band, we would just like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported the show this year and for all the people who braved the weather to visit.

“Here’s to next year.”