FROM police dog displays to birds of prey, Shetland ponies to pygmy goats, the Great Harwood Show left thousands thoroughly entertained this bank holiday Monday.

The event, held on the New Showground on Harwood Lane, attracted a huge crowd this year as temperatures soared above 26 degrees.

Organisers said that the 151st show was a 'roaring success' and attributed clear skies and a new layout for the show as just two of the reasons so many families attended the event.

Steven Horrocks, Chairman of the show, described how each year more people come from further afield to see what the show has to offer.

He said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to see so many people here today. We have a new layout this year and have spent a lot of time getting the grounds they way we want them.

“Each year more and more people come to visit, exhibit and judge at the show and it’s fantastic to see.

“None of this would be possible without our dedicated committee and young committee, who work tirelessly year round to make the show what it is.”

First order of the day in the main arena was a demonstration from the Lancashire Dog Unit. The dogs were at the show all day long, allowing the public to visit them and speak to officers about what it is they do and about the importance of the unit.

Sergeant Chris Hutchinson said: “It’s good for us to come to these events and to give people the opportunity to have a chat with us and see what it is we do with the dogs.

“We do it in aid of the charity the Retired Police Dogs Benevolent Fund, who are also here to talk to people. Our police dogs need loving homes and attention when they’ve retired and it’s so important that this charity gets the funds it needs and this is a great way to raise awareness."

Just one of the thousands that turned out to enjoy the show, Sarah Browne, from Great Harwood said it was the best year yet.

She Said: “We come every year and love the show come rain or shine. The new layout and this fantastic weather has really made it the most enjoyable yet. It’s a family-fun day that we look forward to all year long.”