by David Martin, Andrew Hitchon and Paul Brook

Last year may have been a washout but this time the rain stayed away from the 113th Malton Show.

And though the skies were ominously grey for much of the day, the weather stayed dry as thousands of people flocked to the show's new home in Scampston Park, near Rillington.

Show chairman Mike Knaggs was delighted with the day's events, and said he believed that at least 10,000 people attended.

"The weather was kind to us," he said. By about 11am traffic was queuing right back to Malton and the show car park was completely full.

Mr Knaggs said this show had given a true picture of the move to Scampston Park.

"People have come to me and said they have had a chance to see it this year and it's a very good venue.

"I'm very happy, it can only improve again from today."

As well as the cream of local livestock and produce, attractions in the main arena included a deafening, death-defying display by the Flying Gunners motorcycle display team from the Royal Artillery, and a fancy dress contest on horseback, while a bouncy castle and quad biking added to the fun.

Sally Goodrick, of Terrington, a first-time entrant who carried off two first prizes for flower arranging, said: "It's been a lot better than last year, when it was really wet and miserable. There's been a lot of people looking around, showing a lot of interest."

Farmer John Harrison, of Settrington, who won two first prizes for his Longhorn cattle, said: "It's gone much better than we expected. It's a lovely site for the show and there's a good crowd here."

Keith Williams, of Norton, whose puppy, Piper, won best puppy, agreed, saying: "I think it's really going to take off here now."

While top names like JCB and Claas displayed the latest in farming technology, the East Yorkshire branch of the National Vintage Tractor and Engine Club mounted a display of old farm machinery which included a 1942 threshing machine.

Going further back in time, a parade of heavy horses drew a convoy of colourful carts round the ring.

The Women's Institute tent saw hot competition for the Gillan Cup, for handicrafts, which was carried off by Barton and Harton WI, who also scooped first prize for their table display.

"We're very pleased to be taking it back again," said WI member Vera Lockwood.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.