Thousands defied the weather forecast and headed for the Blickling Hall estate today to enjoy a day of rural north Norfolk life at its very best - this year's Aylsham Show.

The one-day event offered families a multitude of attractions ranging from cattle, sheep and goat classes, heavy horses, showjumping, and dog agility displays, to fairground rides, and Norfolk food, drink and crafts.

There was also a rolling programme of arena displays including the Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Freestyle Display Team, and performances by the Lusitano Horses, Chariots of Fire ponies, and Starting Handle Club vintage agricultural vehicles.

During the morning a lone Dakota swooped low over the showground with a crew member waving from its open doorway.

The overall winner of this year's Norfolk Hero Food and Drink Awards, announced during the show, is The Saracen's Head pub at Wolterton, while the show president's individual hero award was presented to Nicola and Matthew Colchester, of the Colchester Inns group.

? For more on the show see tomorrow's EDP.