Agricultural show season is upon us, and the bank holiday weekend saw Patterdale Dog Day, centred around open sheep dog trials.

Ellen Elliott, 18, was Young Handler Champion at Hesket Newmarket ShowEllen Elliott, 18, was Young Handler Champion at Hesket Newmarket Show (Image: Louise Porter)
This Saturday, Hesket Newmarket Agricultural Show will be held and, earlier in the summer, families flocked to Skelton and Gosforth Shows, as shown in our pictures.

Judging produce at Hesket Newmarket Show in 1976Judging produce at Hesket Newmarket Show in 1976 (Image: Newsquest)
Described as a traditional little agricultural gem nestled on the northern edge of the Lake District National Park, Hesket Newmarket Agricultural Show is a firm favourite with visitors and exhibitors alike.

Ruby-Jane Skelton, left, and Hannah Rae won the Small and Mighty class at Gosforth ShowRuby-Jane Skelton, left, and Hannah Rae won the Small and Mighty class at Gosforth Show (Image: Newsquest)
Offering a wide range of family friendly activities and attractions, it aims to cater for all ages and tastes.
Following record attendance last year, organisers are looking forward to again welcoming some of the top livestock and horse breeders from the north of England and southern Scotland.

Andrea Paisley and Kelly Armstrong won the fancy dress competition at Skelton ShowAndrea Paisley and Kelly Armstrong won the fancy dress competition at Skelton Show
New for 2024 is an additional class in the extensive vintage machinery section, ‘Most Original Agricultural Tractor’.
A debut category for sheep is ‘Any Pure Continental Sheep Breed’, incorporating classes for Gimmer Lamb, Tup Lamb, Aged Female and Aged Tup.

(Image: Newsquest)
With an array of trade stands, a craft tent, classes for working and pet dogs, children’s fancy dress, horticultural and industrial sections, there will be a wide range of activities to enjoy.

The Grand Parade at Skelton Show in 2016The Grand Parade at Skelton Show in 2016 (Image: Newsquest)

As usual, the day will culminate in the Champion of Champions competition and Grand Parade, followed by the infamous Hesket Newmarket Terrier Racing and Cumberland Wrestling, with classes for all ages and abilities.

Tillie Foy, left, with Bear, and Chelsea Strangeway, with Teddy, at Skelton ShowTillie Foy, left, with Bear, and Chelsea Strangeway, with Teddy, at Skelton Show (Image: Newsquest)

As well as the dog trials at Patterdale Dog Day, there were many other attractions and shows to keep visitors entertained.

Judging of the carriage driving at Skelton ShowJudging of the carriage driving at Skelton Show (Image: Newsquest)
The traditional country show is situated in one of the most beautiful locations in England, with the spectacular backdrop of some of the most stunning Lakeland fells.
Skelton Show was held on July 6 and has been running since the late 1800s, while Gosforth Show, on August 17, had experienced shepherd Steven Longton and his sheepdogs as its star attraction.