OFFICIALS of the 163rd annual Stanhope Show breathed a sigh of relief as gales and heavy rain forecast for the weekend failed to materialise.

Show secretary Mike Robson said attendances over the two days were about average.

"We are well satisfied with this, in view of the adverse weather which was forecast for the weekend."

For Mr Robson, it was his last year in charge of the show. After six years at the helm he has decided to hand over the reins to "some new blood with fresh ideas".