THE SUN shone on Saturday, helping to bring in the crowds for Slimbridge family horse and dog show.

The show, which was a regular annual event for the people of Slimbridge for nearly 40years, has not been held for two years, thanks to a combination of terrible weather and organisers’ ill health.

"We used the opportunity to change the format a bit," said Judy Chandra, entries secretary for the show.

"We tried to design the schedule to appeal to everyone, to make it a family event where all are welcome,"

"We are very pleased with the way it has gone and are hoping to continue for many years to come!"

"It’s true that you can never please everyone," continued Judy, " and we have learnt some lessons to put into practice next year. For example, we are going to improve the catering so that those who have travelled a long way to compete can get some breakfast once they arrive, but there was also lots of positive feedback, expecially on the happy atmosphere."

Events at the show included dressage, showjumping and showing, as well as the ever-popular gymkhana, with children as young as two taking part.

"There was even a mother and daughter combination who competed in the Open classes," added Judy.

And for those who preferred their four legged friends to be of the canine variety, there was also a dog show, held in aid of Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA).

"We have yet to count up how much money we have raised, but we shall be making a donation to the St John Ambulance and distriubuting the rest to village charities," concluded Judy.