HUNDREDS flocked to Crooklands today for food, fun and entertainment as this year’s Country Fest got underway.

The first day of the weekend-long event featured attractions and demonstrations including stunt kite flying, motor cycle displays, historic cars and birds of prey.

Twenty-four teams from the Young Farmers Club battled it out in the Tug of War County Championships throughout the day.

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Food-lovers were treated to an array of tasters provided by local producers in their pop-up stall, from artisan bread and cheese to exotic flavoured marshmallows and Kendal Mint Cake vodka.

There were also craft exhibitions, food demonstrtions, dog show and sheep dog trials.

Christine Knipe, chief executive of the Westmorland County Agricultural Society, which organised the event, said, “Last year we had 14,000 people attending over the two days and we’re hoping for the same if not more this year.

“The early signs are really positive and it’s lovely to see the field looking so full.”

Meanwhile, along the canal, visitors were treated to a feast of colour as the National Trailboat Festival got under way, with an Illuminated Parade due to take place tomorrow night (Sunday, 9.30pm) at Coal Yard Wharf.

Country Fest will continue tomorrow, at the Westmorland Showground, Crooklands.