THE Durham Dales hosted the world of agriculture at the weekend.

In Weardale, Stanhope Agricultural Society held its 164th show over two days.

The Royal Signals White Helmets Motorcycle Display Team and Stanhope Silver Band provided entertainment on Saturday, and Cumberland wrestling, a Chariots of Fire event and a wife-carrying race on Sunday.

From today, Fiona Graham becomes general secretary, replacing Mike Robson.

The show saw 15-year-old Shona Jane Gill, a pupil at Parkside School in Willington, become one of the region's youngest officials.

She took up the post of assistant secretary of the small livestock section, to help her grandfather Ken Gill, secretary for 33 years.

Meanwhile, Bowes Show was held in Teesdale on Saturday.

The show included was a family fun run and the showpiece marathon, which saw driven horses complete a 10km fell route before returning to the showfield for an obstacle course.

Head secretary Paul Tranter said: "It was a really strong show. The horse and sheep classes go from strength to strength and the driving classes were particularly pleasing.

"The weather could have been better on Saturday but those who came enjoyed it."

l Results and pictures from Bowes show will appear in tomorrow's Echo.