COLCHESTER’S first town and country show has been hailed a success after thousands of people flocked to the event at the weekend.

The two-day show, in Lower Castle Park, boasted a host of crowd-pulling attractions ranging from birds of prey displays to ferret racing.

The crack of musket shots rang out across the main arena as the 44th East Essex Regiment of Foot performed historic re-enactments.

There were also wine tastings and cookery demonstrations by chefs from Nayland’s Anchor Inn and the Pampered Chef, and rare Suffolk punch horses were on display.

Youngsters got the chance to walk on water in a giant plastic “aqua ball” and there were huge slides and funfair attractions.

Organiser Charlie Owen, of Oakleigh Fairs, said: “We are very pleased with how it’s gone.

“It has been a wonderful response to a new event in Colchester.

“We had lovely weather on Saturday and it brightened up by lunchtime on Sunday, which helped.”

There were also dog shows, traditional craft and food stalls, including Jimmy’s Farm, made famous by the popular TV show.