STUNT cyclists, enthusiastic dogs and a menagerie of animals helped to keep the crowds entertained at Wanborough Show and Carnival on Saturday.

The temperamental weather decided that sunshine and the occasional shower was the order of the day and as a result there was a steady stream of families arriving on the show field where they were greeted with entertainers, vintage vehicles and live music.

One of the organisers, John Basevi, was pleased with the healthy turn out. He said: “It looks like a fantastic show. We have really made an effort this year to invest more in professional entertainers. We’ve relied on friends and amateurs in the past but people expect a little bit more these days.”

He explained the aim of the event was to raise enough money to keep it going for the village. “We need to make enough on the gate to run the snow another year.”

One of the highlights was a working gun dog exhibition in the main arena featuring a determined little three-legged spaniel and a speedy young pup. The traditional country show feel continued with a Morris dancing display.

John said: “We struggled to get them because it is their off season.”

Most Morris troupes dance in the spring and after harvest.

A huge marquee was filled with produce from flowers to cakes while dogs strutted their stuff in a companion show and children enjoyed the chance to stroke a calf, pat a friendly pony or say hello to some sheep.

Sarah Evans had come from North Swindon with her two children to watch the horse show in the morning. “We decided to stay because the sun was shining and it is such a lovely atmosphere,” she said. “They loved the gun dog display and the petting zoo. I’m having trouble dragging them away.”

The committee, which also organises a spring show, is looking for new members. “We desperately need new blood,” said John. “We have some younger people on the committee who are contributing a hell of a lot, but it would be nice to get even more.”

www. wanboroughshow.org.