Crowds throng at Ellingham Show despite soaring temperatures

THOUSANDS of people turned out for the return of the Ellingham Show after three years away.

To mark the popular event's 75th anniversary, a Hurricane fighter from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flew over the showground at Somerley.

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The 2019 show was cancelled due to bad weather and Covid put paid to it in 2020 and last year.

Show secretary Tom Harvey said it was "extraordinary" to see so many people back at the agricultural event over the weekend despite the "fantastically high" temperatures.

Mr Harvey said: "Seeing so many people turn up reflects what a great deal of loyalty people have to the show.

"We did follow the advice of the RSPCA and cancel the dog show and some other events in the main arena for the sake of the animals' welfare.

"We also asked visitors to the show to leave their pets at home. I think most people understood our decision to do that."

Some last-minute changes were made to the attractions in the main arena including more agricultural machinery displays and a "parade of thanks" for key workers including care home staff, binmen, New Forest District Council workers and first responders.

Tom said: "The parade of thanks was something we dreamed up two years ago.

"We knew that when we were back we wanted to do something to recognise the contributions these people have made over the last few years."

The parade was sponsored by Hall and Woodhouse which sent a dray horse and cart for the day.

The total raised for charity through the event is still being counted.

In previous years it has generated more than £30,000 that has been donated to a range of good causes including Macmillan Cancer Support and Sailability.