THOUSANDS of people flocked to the Melplash Show for a "celebration of agriculture" in west Dorset.

This year's event, held at West Bay Showground on Thursday, attracted more than 18,000 visitors.

Despite the muggy conditions, crowds enjoyed demonstrations and shows including a range of livestock, dogs, horses and birds of prey - while hundreds of prizes were handed out to winners.

Lucy Hart, Melplash Show secretary, said: "I'm absolutely delighted with how it has gone and it has got to be a record crowd as it has been so busy.

"All the trade stands look fantastic and there is a great variety of different livestock this year.

"A lot of people that visit the show are holidaymakers so this is a great opportunity to showcase west Dorset and it's a real celebration of agriculture."

The Discover Farming tent was open for the second year. The area featured hands-on demonstrations, aimed at young children, to show them snippets of agriculture.

This year, a Farmers For The Future area was also opened. The area was aimed at older children, showcasing the use of technology in modern agriculture including drones.

Ms Hart added: "We have 120 volunteers who work tirelessly though the year and play such an important role in the day, as well as helping taking it all down again afterwards.

"The money raised will be used to support students who are studying towards an agriculture-based career, so more than £10,000 will go towards students.

"We will also help fund the classroom at Washingpool Farm. There are so many local groups who are here and the community really does come together."

As well as livestock, visitors were able to enjoy dozens of food stalls, with local producers and foodies on hand to show what west Dorset has to offer.

Melanie Pike was visiting the show with her husband Darren, while they were on holiday from Lincolnshire.

Mrs Pike said: "The weather has been a bit uncomfortable, but at least it has stayed dry.

"We weren't expecting it to be as big as it is, there is so much to see. It's a really good day out and we've enjoyed it a lot."