ONE hundred thousand people turned out for this year's Three Counties Show.

The three-day agricultural extravaganza was a mix of farming, food, country pursuits and shopping with arena displays by the Red Devils, hot-air balloons and a military band.

Crowds basking in the hot sun and ice cream sellers did a roaring trade.

The traditional country show saw livestock entries up on last year, an indication of a positive recovery for farming following a number of difficult years. In total more than 5,000 animals were exhibited.

"There was a wonderful atmosphere this year, a real feeling among farmers, traders, exhibitors and visitors that the show has turned around," said Three Counties Agricultural Society spokeswoman Sharon Gilbert.

At the official opening of the show, society president Peter Luff spoke of the continuing importance of agriculture to the UK economy.

British farmers still provide around 60 per cent of what we eat, and food is one of the largest sectors in UK manufacturing, he told show goers.

He said the challenge facing government was "to give heart to farmers and help them succeed."

As well as the traditional livestock competitions, there were motoring displays, mounted games, harness racing, dog agility displays and a celebrity cookery theatre with TV chef James Martin.

There was one unexpected extra display on Saturday when a man streaked across the main arena.

"He ran out from the hospitality area. I think it was for a bet," Ms Gilbert. "It caused great hilarity and I don't think anyone was offended."