By Alex Cutler, @dorsetechoalex, Reporter

CROWDS gathered in their thousands to enjoy the best of what Dorset has to offer at the County Show over the weekend.

From ferret racing to bungee jumping, there was something for everyone at the annual extravaganza as well as the popular vehicle and animal shows and competitions across the two days.

Bill Galpin, Master of the Pimpernel Royal Signals Beagles was one of the organisers behind the beagle and ferret racing shows.

He said: "I don't get to see much of the show because I'm working obviously but I do wish I could experience it a bit more. There's a lot of people that come to it, it's amazing really.

"People are looking for something to do and it's a great day out, it's great to see so many people supporting this show, whether they are into farming and agriculture or not."

Richard Savory, owner and presenter of The Sheep Show, does 130 shows every year across the country but says that Dorset is always a highlight on the circuit.

He said: "We do like coming here, the crowds are always huge and really enthusiastic. They get here nice and early to wait for the next show as well so we always get a good crowd.

"They don't mind getting involved and they understand what we are trying to do with educating the public about sheep and sheep farming."

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Jonathan Marshall, presenter of the world famous horse and falconry show 'Free Spirits' said: "First of all, I have been here many times and it is always well supported.

"What I like about it is that it is a big show but also quite an intimate one as well. I love Dorset and the people here are always lovely."

Will Hyde, show secretary, said: “I am so proud to be part of a team that works relentlessly hard each year to grow our county’s leading agricultural Show and champion the best of Dorset’s agricultural scene. It takes a driving force of 300 volunteers to build the Show and without them we wouldn’t be able to come back year-on-year to deliver the diverse range of attractions that people come to expect at Dorset County Show.

“Thank you to everyone who continues to support the Show, and the new people that came along to find out about more about the event. Through the community’s support we’re able to evolve our offering and are already planning a bigger and better Show ahead of our 180th anniversary next year.”

Dorset Police was represented at the show as well. Officers set up a stall so they could speak to the public and raise awareness of the rural crime prevention work they are carrying out.

A spokesperson said: "Thousands of people have been to see us already, it's a great opportunity for us to interact with people and in particular the farming community."

Originally published in the Dorset Echo

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