THOUSANDS flocked to one of the most picturesque valleys in the region to enjoy one of North Yorkshire’s longest running shows.

Founded in 1871, Rosedale Show remains hugely popular and even gusty winds and occasional showers couldn’t keep the crowds away.

Among those there on Saturday was Baroness Anne McIntosh, the area’s former MP, who warned that moorland and upland farmers were worried about the impact of Brexit.

She said farmers believed they should receive payments for efficiency in farming where it benefitted the industry and safeguarded rural farming.

“Our uplands depend on the success of sheep flocks on the moors and the tenant farmers,” she said..

“They are crucial to the long term sustainability of upland farming and the value it puts on the landscape which is so important to the tourism industry.”

She urged Environment Secretary Michael Gove to produce a 25-year plan for farming and the environment and said farmers needed more help to market their products, such as sheep, to win business from European markets.

On the day Sam Dring had the busy job of acting show secretary and chairman, and afterwards said the event had run as smoothly as ever.

“We had probably our biggest crowds ever, with excellent entries in both quantity and number in virtually every class,” she said.

“We do so well for a small village show, the number of sheep entries are up on previous years

“We know how important the show is to the people of Rosedale. So many people have rallied around over the last few days, most of whom are volunteers.”

One of the toughest fought contests in the sheep classes turned out to be between the texels and James Floyd, who has a smallholding in Ugthorpe, was awarded the champion rosette.

“I am a full-time builder by trade but I love breeding texels because on a weekend it is something we enjoy as a family.” he said.

“I think my success comes from selective breeding. I’ve been doing this since 2001 and have slowly increased my flock.”