THOUSANDS of people turned out to one of the region's oldest agricultural shows making it the 'best ever.'

Organisers of Stanhope Show were blessed with excellent weather causing crowds to come from all over the region to enjoy the host of attractions.

Mike Robson, general secretary at the show, said that at least 10,000 people visited each day.

He said: "I would probably say it has been a record year but I cannot say for definite until I have seen the final figure. It's certainly been a bumper year that's for sure.''

One of the highlights of the show was the Motorcycle Mad Men who kept the crowds transfixed with their daring stunts.

Mr Robson said: "The Motorcycle Mad Men have come here at the last minute to help us out and I really think they have been a tremendous attraction. Ridgeside Falconry are also good friends of Stanhope Show and have put on a superb display along with Stanhope Sliver Band and Horden Brass Band.

One contest that has been the talk of the village throughout the build up to the show was the men's chocolate cake competition. Volunteer for the Industry Section Wendy Maddison said that it had only been the second year for the contest but the men had really pushed the boat out with 23 entries.