IT'S believed to be another record-breaking year at today's Buckham Fair as thousands of people flocked to support it and it's chosen charity.

This year the annual fair, pony and dog show, hosted by Martin and Philippa Clunes, is supporting Weldmar Hospicecare Trust and although no figures have yet been confirmed volunteers believe a record-breaking amount has been raised.

Thousands of people packed into Buckham Down near Beaminster to enjoy a host of fairground rides, stalls and food and drink - and of course the pony and dog shows.

What started off as a glorious morning and early afternoon of sunshine soon became overcast, but thankfully the rain held off - just.

Over the years the fair has grown bigger and better – this year amongst other rides there was a big wheel, dodgems, a carousel and a helter skelter.

Dog classes included a Best Rescue category, a Fun Run and Temptation Alley.

Winner of Best Rescue was Kanella with her owner Mell Burgess, who was overwhelmed to have won. 

The were also pony displays including a Greece-themed display by the 'Pink Ladies' which definitely drew in the crowds who were taken up by the film's classic and catchy songs.

Matt Smith, Weldmar's community and events fundraising manager, said: "It's been really really busy. It looks like the busiest year we have had in all the eight years.

"Everyone is in great spirits and here to support Weldmar. We are really grateful to Martin Clunes for hosting this event and helping us to raise as much money as possible.

"The money raised today will make such a big difference to our patients. We are also really thankful to Barclays who have got involved this year with match funding.

"We don't know how much we have raised yet, our record here has been around £63,000 but judging on the amount of people here this year, I think we could have another record-breaker."

TV star Martin Clunes was an eager judge of the dog shows. He welcomed the crowds, thanking them for coming to support Weldmar.

Judging the Best Rescue category he said: "It's so hard. I want to give them all an award they are all fantastic."

Last year Buckham Fair 2015 raised £63,200 for Julia's House Children's Hospice. 

Mum Melanie Harris from Bridport was enjoying the fair with eight-year-old her son Charlie and dog Ben.

She said: "It is a fantastic event, especially for us dog lovers and animal lovers. There is a bit of everything for every age range which is why I think so many people come to it each year.

"We've been for about the past three years or so. Each year there is something else added and it's always a successful day."