FLOWER exhibitors saw their hard work wrecked when part of a show marquee collapsed, crushing their exhibits.

The local flower classes at Wensleydale Show were cancelled after one side of the horticulture tent was blown down just as judging began on Saturday morning.

Tractors from the vintage machinery classes helped support the marquee while stewards re-secured guy ropes and poles.

Steward Penny Bowell said: "The wind caught the side of the tent just as we were beginning to judge. We managed to hold it up with tractors and Land Rovers."

Other horticulture classes were unaffected and Ken Read, of Barden, near Leyburn, managed to fend off a challenge from his 11-year-old grandson, Scott. Scott trounced his grandfather at last year's show and the pair continued their friendly rivalry.

The 93rd show went ahead without sheep and cattle classes because of continuing livestock movement restrictions following the foot and mouth outbreak in the south.

Horse competitions took place as normal, with Hetherington's roof contractors, of Heywood, Lancashire, taking the carriage driving championship.

Next year's show will be affiliated to the British Driving Society and winners will qualify for the British Driving Championships.

The honours in the dry stone walling contest went to David Wallace, who completed the best two metres of wall to take the 75 first prize and the Bostock trophy.

Ian Spence, of Staindrop, near Darlington, won the open quoits competition.

Visitors enjoyed blue skies and sunshine and main ring attractions which included classic vehicles, the Richmond pipes and drums, Catterick Beagles and the Bedale Hunt, a wild West display by the Company of Horsemen, and terrier racing.