THOUSANDS of people soaked up the sunshine this weekend at the Monmouth Country Fair.

Scurry racing, falconry demonstrations and gun dog displays kept the crowds entertained across the weekend.

The fair, which visited the Monmouth show ground for the first time last year, also gave visitors a chance to have a go at field archery, angling, falconry and gun dog handling.

Nationally selcted artists, designers and craftsmen gave a range of demonstrations, including chainsaw wood carving and glass blowing, in the craft village, while visitors could learn about game cookery in the food stands.

Little ones were also catered for with fairground rides, puppet shows and quad bike rides.

Free children’s falconry tuition sessions were on offer throughout the day in the falconry village, where visitors could learn about a range of birds from eagles and hawks to owls, kites and vultures.

Two arenas hosted a variety of events across the weekend, including sheepdog displays, ‘Have a go’ with a Harris Hawk, and James McKay’s Ferret Roadshow.

The fair was combined with the Welsh Antique and Vintage Tackle Fair, where people had the opportunity to have thier old treasures valued and get advice on repairs and restoration.

Although an exact turnout has not yet been revealed, thousands turned out to enjoy the two days.