HEAVY rain kept crowds away from Crosby Ravensworth annual agricultural show and put off a number of exhibitors.

Although entries for the 142nd show and vintage rally were up in most categories, on the day lots of competitors, especially in the horse classes, did not turn up.

Event secretary Lynda Kindleysides said she was 'disappointed' with the amount of people who came to support the show last Thursday.

"We have been unlucky with the weather,” said Mrs Kindleysides. “We made a decision at the beginning of the week that we would go ahead with the show as there was no forecast for rain today.

“I'm a little bit disappointed with the turn out but cars have still been arriving all day.”

The ploughing competition had to be cancelled as there were still crops in the field, at Low Bottom, in Maulds Meaburn.

“We have some French wrestlers here today, I'm quite pleased, it's nice to go international,” added Mrs Kindleysides.

Christian Salaun, from Brittany, brought nine men over from France to take part in the Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling.

“It's a nice show and we are pleased to be here,” said Mr Salaun.

Taking home the prestigious title in the cattle section was Neil Slack, of Plum Tree House, Newby. His Limousin cross, called Fabrizio, was the overall champion.

“It's tremendous to win,” said Mr Slack. “It's the first time in a number of years. The judges look for an animal that will be good for meat.”

Mr Slack added that he planned to take the 11-month bull to the Christmas show where he hoped for similar success.

Securing first place in the Dales pony section was Charlie Parker, of Hill Gill Farm, in Baldersdale, with his five-year old called Roandaleagnes.

“This is the first year I have won,” said Mr Parker. “She has never been shown before, she's a classy pony.”