RECORD numbers turned out at the Five Parishes Show.

The traditional country show, now in its 81st year, took place on Sunday at Fingringhoe Ranges, in Langenhoe.

About 2,000 people spent the day watching medieval combat, bird and dog shows, model aircraft, as well as picking up tips on how to grow fruit, vegetables and even how to make beer and wine.

“The show has really picked up so much because there is a lot more focus on growing your own food,” said Sally Abbott, part of the team, which organises the event.

“There was wall-to-wall sunshine, which always helps in an event like this and it meant people stayed longer than maybe they had planned.”

The show also included dozens of craft stalls, while brass band Colne Endeavour provided the soundtrack to the day.

Mrs Abbott added: “So much work goes into putting the show together for those six hours on a Sunday, but it is completely worth it when we have such a successful show.”