THE Monmouthshire Show, which celebrates the best in farming and has been held for more than 150 years, provided entertainment, competitions, show jumping and displays at the Monmouthshire Showground in Monmouth.

Among the attractions were 350 trade stands selling local produce and crafts, traditional cider making, a display by Usk Gun Dogs and scurry championships.

In the countryside ring motorbike stunt rider Jason Smyth entertained the crowds with his hair-raising freestyle jumps 30ft in the air, whilst in the main ring show jumpers competed for a place in the Horse of the Year Show.

Visitors sampled crepes and local ciders whilst youngsters were entertained by Mr Alexander's Travelling Show and a display by Black Mountain Falconry.

One of the early winners of the day was Frank Robinson, 78, who owns Nantyderry Nurseries, near Abergavenny. Mr Robinson won his first place rosette for his colourful display of plants. Mr Robinson, who recently scooped Gold at the Royal Welsh Show, is a veteran of the Monmouthshire Show having attended for 20 years.

He said: "It's wonderful to receive an award and to support the show."

Farmers Kay Morgan,34, and her father Gerald Morgan, 64, of Graig Olway Farm, Usk, who brought along five of their Llangeview Suffolk Sheep were nervously awaiting the judges results as was Joan Stevens of Ty Isaf Farm, Gilwern who was showing six Anglo Nubian Milkers in the goat section.

Little Alena Lawson, five, of Newport, was visiting for the first time with grandfather Gerald Phillips, of Highfield, Langstone, who was showing his Pedigree Black Welsh Mountain Sheep.

She said: "I am very excited to be here and like all the animals, especially the sheep."

Twin sisters Ella and Grace Plant, from Coleford were also first time visitors.

Dad Sam, 34, said they were enjoying all the attractions but especially looking forward to seeing the smaller animals.

Show secretary, Anna Williams said: "Despite parking problems caused by the ground conditions we are expecting 20,000 visitors which is on par with last year."

"We've had terrible weather recently but the rain held off and the sun shone."

"Entries were up this year, especially in the equestrian category. It's been a fantastic day and all our volunteers have been superb."