Organisers of a major farmer-run event in north Essex breathed a sigh of relief after unfavourable weather forecasts proved to be wide of the mark on Saturday, July 13.

Tendring Show basked in "near-perfect" show weather with some cloud but no rain - ideal conditions for the many animals which take part in the annual event - as well as for visitors.

It meant a comfortably above-average attendance of 21,000 people to enjoy a mixed array of entertainment in the rings from cattle and sheep competitions to tractor pulling - with lines of willing participants dragging two tractors in a "tug of war" race.

Tractor pulling race in the main ring (Image: Sarah Chambers) Show chairman Catherine Parker said there was relief and delight all round after a wet run-up to the event and a "nerve-racking" few days because of the volatile weather.

"I think this year we have got a real buzz about the show with the agriculture and the kit and loads of support from our trade stands. We feel this year they have upped their game," she said.

"Don't get me wrong there have been some tense moments when there was a day of rain on Tuesday but we planned for that and because we had a plan in place that kept it calm."

Young Julia Triolo of Stanway, Colchester, getting a better look (Image: Sarah Chambers) But weather dominated during the week's preparations, she said.

"It's the first conversation Nigel Rowe the show foreman and I had every morning and every evening. But actually it has been perfect show day weather and the gods blessed us."

The local community really got behind the event - and she and her family were totally committed to its success, she said.

Dog owners enjoying the show (Image: Sarah Chambers)

"When I was born my grandad was chairman and I think you grow up with the passion and you can't explain it. You would not miss this day. Because it's all done by volunteers you think you should play your part and give something back."

At 21,000, the turnout was about 1,000 above the average - putting the not-for-profit event comfortably in the black.

The sheep competition (Image: Sarah Chambers)

Show goers enjoying the food stalls (Image: Sarah Chambers)