THE sunshine brought thousands out at the weekend to help celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Machen Agricultural Show.

From pigeons to horses, a variety of animals were on show and providing demonstrations to the 6,000 visitors who packed out Mill Farm.

Shows of animals including pygmy goats, horses and dogs added to the event which also offered a range of craft stalls, vintage machine displays and mini farms.

Secretary of Poultry Club of Wales, Edward Page said there had been around 300 entries in the poultry section alone.

He said: "We’ve had exhibitors coming over from Bristol. It’s been a very good day and very nice weather."

June Camfield of Pygmy Goat Club was chief steward of a pygmy goat show which included prizes for best veteran goat and best father and daughter goat.

She said: "We had 147 entries. Everyone has really enjoyed themselves."

Rachael Jones, of Varteg, was among the winners of the day with her Pug cross Shih Tzu dog Thomas who took the title ‘Best in show’ at a dog show organised by animal charity Hope Rescue.

She said: "I am over the moon. It’s the first time I’ve ever entered anything like this."

The agricultural show was founded in 1941 by the late Henry John and began as a gymkhana and horse show to raise funds for the Home Service Comforts Fund, a charity which helped troops serving abroad.

Mr John’s son Roland John, 81, is now Machen Show Society president and has attended every show to date.