The sun was shining as the South of England Show returned for another year.
The first day of the three-day event in Ardingly kicked off with busy crowds but it felt like the calm before the storm with Saturday’s and Sunday’s numbers sure to top Friday’s.
Visitors had plenty to see and do with a huge array of stalls, activities and animal displays and judging.
Different breeds of sheep, cows, goats and pigs could be admired, as well as hounds and horses.
In the pig village, sows and their piglets sheltered from the heat while out in the pens pigs were vying for rosettes.
Many could be seen having absolutely none of it running around and leading their handlers on a merry dance.
Children were delighted with the pygmy goats and crowds gathered to watch as prize winning sheep were selected from the woolly rows being judged.
It was the perfect opportunity for business to show off their wares too.
Traders came from all over the UK, including as far as Cumbria, and there was a huge delegation of Sussex brands.
Paul Curry from Hepworth & Co Brewers said he often sees regular customers every year at the show.
He has been attending for eight years.
“We see a lot of loyal customers here,” he said.
“One gentleman who has just turned 80 reckons Hepworth is the reason he’s still going.”
Crafts were showcased, including the East Sussex Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers, as well as nature organisations and charities.
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Tractors and steam rollers were in action on the fields.
And in the bees and honey tent people could watch several beehives from behind a sheet.
People sat on the grass outside the food village for picnics as the delicious smells from the stalls oozed out over the green space and live music played out.
There was a large queue for the hog roast truck and happy visitors wandered around the maize of tents with a pint, gin or prosecco in hand.
The South of England Show returns on Saturday and Sunday and is open from 9am till 6pm.
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