MORE than 60,000 people turned out in the glorious summer sun to enjoy the Royal Lancashire Show.

Organisers said the show had reaped the benefits of the good weather and a return to a weekend slot.

Andrew Thompson, show director, said it was too early to say how profitable the three-day event at Salesbury Hall, Ribchester, had been.

He said the highlight of the event had been the showjumping competitions, which attracted some of the best competitors in the country.

One competition on Sunday carried a £21,000 prize.

He said: "All the livestock classes were well supported, not just from Lancashire but also from further afield.

Mr Thompson added that the increased numbers of participants in the livestock competitions was down to moving the show to the weekend.

And he attempted to quash rumours that the show might move and said: "We have always had alternative sites under consideration, nothing has been decided for next year. I am looking forward to holding the show in the Ribble Valley.

"We have been fortunate that the weather has held up and the show has been a success.

"I would like to thank everyone who came for their support and hope they consider the show a worthy cause and tell their friends and colleagues about us."

The event that started on Friday featured gundog and sheepdog displays, falconry and ferret shows, and a wide range of other animal-themed extravaganzas.

There was also a mix of stands on exhibition with one of Lancashire favourite ice cream producers, Huntley's of Samlesbury selling their delights for the first time.

Success was vital after a disastrous 2004 when torrential rain and traffic problems forced part of the show to be called off and caused financial chaos.