RECORD crowds dodged torrential showers over the weekend to make it a vintage year for the 23rd Great Aycliffe Show.

Organisers said the car parks at the Oakleaf Leisure Centre, in Newton Aycliffe, had never been fuller and estimated that more people than ever before had turned out for the event.

On the showground there was plenty to do and see for visitors of all ages.

In the arena there were displays from stunt motorcyclist Jason Smyth, Rossendale Sheepdogs, birds of prey and heavy horses, as well as Team Extreme, the UK's only professional skateboarding, BMX and inline skating team.

Even yesterday's rain failed to dampen spirits as show visitors took shelter in nine marquees offering a wide range of activities.

One of the favourites was a children's play house, where all the primary schools in Newton Aycliffe joined in the fun.

There were craft stalls, rabbits and cavies, and an exhibition of handicrafts, home produce and art.

Marie Robinson, one of the organisers, said: "We only had rain for 90 minutes over the whole weekend, so it was not a problem.

"We can't say how many people came along because we don't charge for admission, but we have never seen the car park so full.

"We think we provided something for everyone and people have had a good time. Jason Smyth was a huge draw in the arena. It was packed every time he was on."

Among the trophy winners were: Home produce - Mrs CA Tennant; craft - Sheila Coutts; knitting - Mrs D Langley; homemade wine - KW Tennant; article in wood - AG Walker; photography - JC Woodhouse; art - Mrs J Holt; children's section - Carly Jones. Cavies: Best in show and best self - Pauline Avery; best non-self - Roy Hill; best rare variety - Rexcetra Stud; best junior - Rebecca Metcalfe. Football: Seniors - Team Norfolk, Newton Aycliffe; senior plate - Heighington FC; intermediates - NASC, Norton; intermediate plate - Shildon Mugs; juniors NAYC Falcons; Junior Plate - Heighington Wanderers.

l See tomorrow's edition of The Northern Echo for more results.