THOUSANDS of people flocked to a college’s annual spring festival yesterday (Sunday, May 18).

The event at East Durham College’s Houghall Campus, in Durham, included equine displays, dog agility and grooming demonstrations, falconry and bird of prey displays, floristry, sheep shearing, a climbing wall, archery, trampolines and more.

Along with that a number of small and exotic animals were on display, including a visit from meerkats Timon, Nala and Bandit.

East Durham College events co-ordinator Dianne Weir said: “It was a fantastic day yesterday at the 2014 Houghall show with attendance surpassing all expectations.

“Around 5,000 people came through the gates at the Durham site, which almost doubled on last year’s attendance, which itself was a record number.

“A number of fantastic attractions including Durham Constabulary’s Dogwise Event and the 2014 Houghall Classic Car Show, along with the fantastic weather over the weekend all played their part in attracting visitors.”

She added: “Feedback from attendees on the day was very positive and the day has been hailed as a massive success.

"Planning is already underway for next year’s show, including ideas to improve the traffic flow to ease congestion for people coming in and out of the site.”