AN annual fair that is helping to keep countryside traditions alive drew large crowds at the weekend.

The Teesdale and District Game Fair featured an enlarged and improved programme at Witton Castle on Saturday and Sunday.

Three Clydesdale horses were one of the highlights of events on the showfield, including 22-year-old Ed, who is one of the oldest working horses in the country.

A falconry display also proved popular, as were displays of ferreting, lurchers, terriers and gundogs.

Competitions and demonstrations around the extensive grounds included clay pigeon shooting, archery and airgun shooting.

Organiser Geoff Clutton said: "It has been brilliant. We were trying to make it a family day out and it has been well supported.

"I want to keep country life traditions going, that is why we have got horses, ferrets and dogs alongside the main ring displays."

There was also a funfair for the children, a climbing wall, bouncy castle and a range of stalls for visitors to explore.

Traditional country crafts and produce were on sale, as well as a French market with traders from Normandy selling smoked meats, breads and cheeses.