The sun shone on Sedgefield as the town’s annual country show attracted the crowds on Saturday (August 10).

It was the 169th event, still staying faithful to its traditional country show feel, with the usual equine, sheep and cattle classes for the purists, along with other hardy annuals such as home and handicrafts plus horticulture, and a display of vintage farm machinery and classic cars.

But there were also a few novelty features, including Al Pacas, while the well-groomed pooches in the canine section proved popular, as did a drag demonstration by the South Durham Hunt.

Joint show secretary Helen Shaw said the hard work of the 30-strong committee and volunteer team paid off, thanks in part to the elements.

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sedgefield Show)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

“We’ve been working around the clock from 9am last Monday to get things set up, but the amazing weather really topped it off.

“We were getting people coming through the gate constantly up to about 2.30pm, even though we close at 4.30pm.”

While final figures have yet to be confirmed she said the show usually attracts about 5,000 people through the day,

There were events on the main showfield throughout, but there was plenty in the marquees and side stalls to keep showgoers entertained and amused.

“All the feedback has been good since the gates closed, so it feels like the hard work was worthwhile.”

She thanked show sponsors, including Young’s RPS, Sedgefield Racecourse, Butterwick Hospice, Easy Fuels (North East) and the Hardwick Hall Hotel, as well as the support of townsfolk in general.

(Image: Sedgefield Show)

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The show committee members, with helpers, were back on site today (Sunday August 11) clearing up, before enjoying a few weeks off, ahead of a de-brief at September’s meeting and its agm in October.

Ms Shaw said the planning for next year’s event will begin in earnest in January, with big things planned to mark the 170th show, as ever on the second Saturday in August (August 9, 2025).

Meanwhile, the summer event focus remains on Sedgefield with the now annual music spectacular, Hardwick Live, bringing the crowds back to the town next weekend.