AROUND 7,000 people gathered in Chepstow this weekend for the town's agricultural show.

This is the second year that the show has been held at Chepstow Racecourse after it was previously held in Crickhowell.

The event held on Saturday included show jumping competitions, a livestock parade, vintage vehicle display and the Jez Avery stunt show.

Sarah Williams, 13, of St Brides Netherwent near Penhow came first in the local best rider category with her pony Mrs Tiggywinkle. To win Sarah had to show judges that the pony was responsive to the rider and that she could trot and canter.

Fiona Williams, Sarah's mother said: "I am very pleased as it was the pony's first show. She was rescued by the Society for the Welfare of Horses and Ponies - it's quite remarkable the change from when we first had her.

"We've been coming to the show for years - it's very enjoyable with lots to do. It's a shame more people don't come to compete here - I think it’s down to the fact that you need a horse passport and inoculation to be able to come here as it’s a racecourse."

Farmers from around the county brought their cattle to the show including Steve Pegington, of Llangwm, Usk who won reserve champion heifer.

Sarah Davies, general secretary of the show, said: "We've had really good feedback so far from everyone here."

The show was first held at Piercefield Park during the early 1920s and is organised by the Chepstow Agricultural Society.

Nick Ramsay, AM for Monmouth, said: "This is the first time I've been to the show when it's been held at the racecourse. It's a great location for the event and a great event for Monmouthshire.

"You get the big shows such as the Royal Welsh but I think many people have a better time in the local agricultural show such as here, in Usk and Monmouth. They are a big part of the county.”

Ned Heywood, Mayor of Chepstow, said: "I've been to the show for many years - it's an excellent event. It's great that so many local people are here. It's a brilliant community event.

"There are many things happening in Chepstow from the cycling last week to the show. The racecourse helps as it's a great venue to hold these events. The location is ideal for people to walk up from the town."

Julie Guy, of Wentwood View, Caldicot, said: "This is our third time coming to the show. It's a great family day out - the girls love to see the horses and the men are over looking at the cars. There's a bit of everything here.

"It's nice to see all the animals and the arts and crafts.”