RAIN, sunshine, horses and dogs – this years’ Buckham Fair had it all.

The annual fair, pony and dog show was hosted by Martin and Philippa Clunes at Beaminster yesterday and what started out as a grey and rainy day, quickly turned into a glorious day of sunshine.

Thousands of people packed into the fairground to enjoy a host of rides, trade stalls and food and drink.

There were dog classes including best rescue, dog agility and horse displays, including from the impressive Clydesdales, who wowed the crowds in their final display of cantering.

This years’ fair was in aid of Julia’s House.

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Volunteers from Barclays Bank were helping on the gates and showing people round.

Branch Manager and organiser Zoe Horne said that for every pound made on the gate, Barclays would match pound for pound up to £40,000.

She said it was a “brilliant” event, adding: “It’s such a good cause.”

TV star Martin Clunes met the riders of the Clydesdale horses and helped to judge the dog show.

He thanked everyone for turning out and supporting the charity event, especially as it had been raining heavily in the morning. Speaking as the rain fell, he said: “I’m really pleased, it’s heroic of people to turn out. There were people in the pouring rain watching the dog agility.”

He added: “Thank you so much.”

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Chris Pacey, 56, from Puncknowle, was at the fair with her sister Gina Kellaway, 60, from Weymouth and friend Val Belbin, 51, from Puncknowle and dog Amber.

Mrs Pacey said: “We have come every year. It’s a nice fair and it supports local charities for Dorset every year. It’s just good fun.”

Mrs Kellaway said: “It’s lovely. It’s just so nice – it’s a nice atmosphere, nice people, nice things to look at.”

Mrs Belbin added: “I think it’s just amazing from the charity point of view.”

Jan Bannister, 57, from Seatown was watching the dog classes with her cockapoo dog Bonnie.

She said: “I just love the atmosphere. The view is lovely when the weather’s good, everyone’s friendly.”

She added: “What I like there’s lots of things made in Dorset. They always support the local businesses. I think that’s very important too.”

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