OLD glories were revived at a Penrith Show that was bathed in sunshine.

Around 10,000 visitors to the Penrith showfield at Brougham Hall Farm were treated to a truly memorable show that returned after a break of two years due to the pandemic.

Show chairwoman Fiona Kidd said the organisers were 'overwhelmed' by the footfall, with big takings on the gates. Visitors had come from the local area and much further afield, she said.

"Online tickets were still being purchased right up to the morning of the show," she added.

The competitive spirit was still evident among the farming community that had turned out in force to support the show celebrating 50 years on its current site, thanks to the Helm family.

Colourful gazebos littered the edge of the livestock rings, helping to keep gleaming livestock cool, while breeders young and old carried on with one thing in mind - leading their best animals to glory.

Although livestock had travelled from far and wide, it was the Catterlen, near Penrith-based Horsley family's proud Holstein that captured the Dairy, followed by the Interbreed Championships before to their delight the ultimate accolade, the Champion of Champions.

Their Holstein Woodcatt Control Squaw, a home-bred second-calver, sired by JK Eder Control, was on her first outing.She has a VG89, which is a maximum score for her age.Back home the family have 230-strong Holstein dairy herd.

The animal was shown by Will Horsley, 25.

Reserve Champion of Champions was J&S Wilkinson

Elsewhere on the showfield the show kept to its agricultural roots with dry-stone walling and heavy horses. "These are all reminders of some of the traditions that are kept alive at agricultural events," said Fiona.

"The entertainment area was a great success and we want to say thanks to all the sponsors who make it possible to host the show each year. The show takes months of preparation and this has been guided by our new show secretary Andy Ryder and his team from Pedigree Livestock Services, led by Catherine Jones. The show also welcomed a new treasurer, Alice Beattie. She only took over the role a few weeks before the show," added Fiona.

The event has grown in popularity with a wide range of competition classes including Cumberland & Westmorland wrestling, show jumping, industrial and horticulture, and a host of local trade stands, food hall and rural crafts marquee.

And this year there was even more family fun to be had with the introduction of the new Family Entertainment Area with lots of free activities, shows and demonstrations to keep the youngsters entertained.

These included magic performances and balloon modelling with Stu Di Doo, a junior warrior course, archery with Action Ants and a zoo as Zoobidoo.

There was also be a bubbleologist and Clever Dogs trainer Jen Cartmel demonstrated how she works with people who attend her dog training classes.

Show president was Stephen Lancaster, who presented trophy for Champion of Champions.