CROWDS flocking to Spiceball Park for the “magnificent” Banbury and District Show on Sunday surpassed all expectations, with up to 10,000 people attending the family day.

Entertainment in the two arenas, including horseback performances by the Galloping Acrobats and the Joseph Peace Fire Show, kept onlookers buzzing throughout.

Meanwhile visitors of all ages were spoiled for choice, with dozens of stalls, funfair rides, activities and other attractions crammed into the park.

Animal lovers were treated to a bumper year. An assembled crowd cheered their favourite contenders to victory at the ferret race, with a dog show, pig racing, flyball demonstrations and falconry elsewhere.

Banbury Mayor Tony Mepham said: “Today’s Banbury and District Show is magnificent. I think there is more to see and more to do than ever before and this must be one of the best free-to-enter events anywhere in the country.

“I’m pleased that so many people have turned out to enjoy the day.”

Taking up arms at a laser-game was Ollie Mumford-Smith, three, from Banbury, with Katie Palmer, eight, and Alfie Haywood, four.

Ollie’s father, Anthony Smith, said: “The kids were all over the rides, and we were particularly interested in the food.

“It was a really good day and after it being rained off last year it was nice to see it back with a lot more stuff. It was fleshed out compared to previous years.

“There’s a traditional side, which is very nice for Banbury.”