ALSTON was hailed as one of the region’s friendliest show as organisers and entrants toasted another super success.

Hundreds of people turned out for the town’s big day on Saturday, with strong entries across sheep, cattle and industrial classes.

And secretary Carolyn Harrison is in no doubt as to the secret of the event’s success.

“Alston is probably the friendliest, most easy-going, laid back - but professional - show in the north of England,” she said.

“Everyone loves coming to Alston Show. People who have not been for years have been returning again, which is great.”

Jamie Murray, of Sewingshields, Haydon Bridge, took the Blackface championship with a two-shear tup and said: “This really is a good show. It’s becoming one of the best. It’s a good time of year for showing stock.”

Alston is one of the final events of the summer show season and for many of the exhibitors, rosettes topped a year of strong results.

Gillian Blamire, of Mid Whinnow, Thursby, continued success enjoyed at Dalston and Penrith by winning the Zwartble section with her gimmer shearling.

“We’re delighted with her,” she said. “We’ve had a grand summer and this is a great show. It’s the third year we’ve been and we really enjoy it.”

A Zwartble was also to the fore in a keenly contested young handler section, which was won by eight-year-old Lachlan Rae, of Wallacetown Zwartbles, Dumfries, with a ewe lamb, following successes he enjoyed at Dalston and the Great Yorkshire shows.

In the Texel section, Thomas Athey, of High Loveladyshield, Alston, tasted home success by taking the breed championship with a gimmer shearling - and reserve with another of his flock.

Alan Dent, of Beamwham, Haydon Bridge, won best steer, best outfit and champion calf with his British Blue cow and Limousin calf on what was the first time out for them and said: “We’re originally from up here, so we try to come most years. It’s nice to win.”

Organisers showed support for Love Lamb Week, while there was a bustling industrial tent, children’s races and a well-supported dog show.