CROWDS braved the rain on Saturday to enjoy a celebration of the countryside at Ringwood.

The Ellingham and Ringwood Agricultural Annual Show 2008 took place in the stunning grounds of the Somerley Estate and truly boasted something for everyone.

The event was making a return after being cancelled in 2007 due to Foot and Mouth disease restrictions.

A popular part of the show as always was the heavy horse display, while dairy and beef cattle were shown to perfection as they vied for a coveted champion rosette or sash.

Also on display were rare breeds of rams, ewes, goats and lambs, while the donkey show catered for foals just six weeks old to veterans of 15 years.

The dog show included categories ranging from "most handsome pedigree" to "waggiest tail" in a fun competition.

Michael Lingham-Willgoss, one of the show's organisers, said: "Because we had a couple of hours early on when the weather was pleasant lots of people came in.

"We've had a good crowd around the main arena, there's been a good atmosphere. We push it as a traditional family day out and a country day out."

Away from the animals, the horticultural marquee let locals show off their homemade produce, with special categories for youngsters.

Mouths watered at the prospect of the domestic product competition, with cakes, breads, scones, jams, chutneys and home made wines all on offer.

The craft marquee was also a big draw; inside exhibitors made and showed their own products, while outside rural craft methods of production, practised for generations, were demonstrated.

A host of original and unusual designs lined up for the scarecrow competition, while there was more fun in the fancy dress contest, which catered for both humans and their four-legged companions. The main arena was home to plenty of action, including the Shetland Pony Grand National, the sheepdog and farmyard display, Iberian horse parade and a bird flying display. Organisers expected up to 15,000 visitors.