THOUSANDS of people converged on the Durham County Show at the weekend.

Rain and muddy fields resulted in a fall in the attendance at Herrington Country Park, Penshaw, near Sunderland, on Saturday, but the crowd numbers were boosted when the sun came out on Sunday.

Show secretary Christine Dukes said: "Saturday was slow because of the rain, but Sunday was a fantastic day. It was the most people we have ever had through the gates in any one day.

"Gatekeepers said they had never had to deal with so many cars before."

One of the most popular appearances were the Devil's Horsemen, who had returned by popular demand to put on a spectacular display with a Cossack flavour. Other attractions included the Kangaroo Gymnastic Team whose members went through theirpaces, leaping over cars.

Mrs Duke said the traditional agricultural element of the show remained as strong as ever, although Defra regulations meant the continued cancellation of the livestock element. She said a priority for next year would be to try and have the cattle and sheep exhibits returned.

She said: "The horse and pony classes have gone smoothly and the fun dog show saw in increase in entries. The fur and feather section has also seen further increases on previous years."

One of the more popular marquees hosted a display of traditional skills by volunteers and guilds, with everything from clippy mats and corn dollies to woodturning and glass engraving.

Among the younger generation was Abigail Richards, 13, of Boldon, whose embroidery work has been highly commended for the past three years.

Mrs Duke said: "Trade stands were well up on the previous year, with more than 200 stalls.

"The show is growing and people are already on the waiting list for next year. We have also had an increase in catering vans, giving visitors a much wider choice."

Visitors were also treated to live music in the amphitheatre, from groups representing the area's burgeoning music scene to brass band music in the park's bandstand, as well as fairground rides and competitions.

The show was established in 1841 and more than 100 have been held.

In 1999, organisers were told they had to move from their traditional home at Lambton Park. In 2000, the show was held on the Northern Area Playing Fields in Washington.

The following year the show was cancelled due to foot-and-mouth disease and it moved to its present home in 2002.