GYMNASTS, farm animals, tractors and military vehicles took pride of place as hundreds of spectators battled mud and rain at the annual North Somerset Show on Monday.

Despite areas of the North Somerset Showground, near Wraxall, descending into a bog, prized exhibits, stunning displays and local farmers and butchers put on a great spectacle enjoyed by more than 10,000 people.

Show secretary Tim Ledbury said crowds were down on last year’s record of 17,000 but said it was to be expected given the persistent rain.

He said: “It went really well. It was wet and muddy but as far as we are concerned it was a good day.”