AN event which fell victim to the foot-and-mouth crisis a year ago returned at the weekend, attracting crowds numbering in the thousands.

There were still no sheep or cattle at the North Yorkshire County Show, near Northallerton, on Saturday - organisers decided that too many farmers would either be limited by movement restrictions, or still concerned about the risks to livestock, to enter competitions this year.

The move seemed particularly valid in the light of the news of a foot-and-mouth alert in Leicestershire on Friday.

Sunny weather ensured the show ground was packed with people willing to give the rural way of life a boost.

"It was a good day with a happy atmosphere," said spokeswoman, Alison Dale.

"We were really pleased to see so many people.

"The committee felt that even if there were no livestock, we should still try to organise something to keep us afloat financially and that seems to have been the right thing to do."

Arena displays included a dog show, falconry and demonstrations of vintage farm machinery.

There were competitive classes for horses, a showjumping competition and a contest for farriers, among other things.

A few miles away, the Army was also staging its first open day at Catterick Garrison since the foot-and-mouth crisis began.

Soldiers were unable to stage the event last year as many of them were away from barracks helping with the culls and the clear-up operation.

A spectacular display of military technology made up for the disappointment of last year.

Visitors were able to ride in some of the vehicles soldiers use in battle, test their nerve on an aerial runway or a simulated parachute jump, or try out high-tech equipment, including night-vision goggles.

"It got very busy very quickly once the gates opened," said a spokesman yesterday.

"I think it is safe to say the day achieved everything we hoped it would.''