Appleby's agricultural show was hailed a huge success, even if visitors did have to battle their way through the mud to enjoy a vast array of exhibits.

Organisers deliberated over whether to let the show go ahead up to the last minute as heavy rain soaked Barley Field, but the sun made a welcome appearance in the afternoon.

Show secretary Vicky Percival said: "I think it was a good case of Dunkirk spirit because everyone got a good drenching.

"I am pleased we were able to go ahead as it has been such a bad year for shows; we are just grateful for what we get.

"Thank you to all the trade stands, exhibitors, judges and stewards - they all make the show."

She said it had been a better turn out in some classes than previous years.

"We had higher horse entries than usual, the majority of which have shown up.

"New rare and minority sheep breeds class has been very well supported.

Glenys Hunter, visiting from Sedbergh said she had enjoyed her first ever visit to the show.

"I was most looking forward to seeing the horses,” she said. “I used to be a horse and sheep farmer, and I will hopefully be back next year.”

Norman Nelson, 64, a former farmer from Kendal, was visiting the show for the fourth time. He said: "I really like agricultural shows and I have enjoyed it today."

Young rider Nikkita Guy picked up a second place rosette on pony Skyline Ranger in the child rider category.

The 12-year-old from Penrith said she has been coming to the show since she was little and 'usually does quite well'.

She said: “I always really enjoy it and love watching the other horses.”

Cousins Nicola Chappelhow, 16, and Amy Wilson, 13, from Penrith were delighted to pick up accolades for their family’s cow and bull calf pair in the limousin section.

Nicola said: “The weather has not put us off at all; we have been coming for many years. We are very pleased with the results.”