Thousands of people poured into the tiny village of Uffington at the weekend to celebrate the 40th White Horse Country Show.

Despite the RAF Red Arrows having to pull out of the show after a fatal air crash in Bournemouth, there was still plenty to attract families.

Two arenas featured dazzling displays including gymnastics on horseback from Jive Pony, Cossack horsemanship, falconry and heavy horses.

Thrillseekers went on helicopter rides while lovers of traditional arts and countryside crafts had a chance to see working traction engines and thatchers at work.

Catherine McCarthy, 42, and Hans Andreae, 43, from Headington, brought their two-year-old daughter, Ciara, to the show.

Ms McCarthy said: “The shows and the animals are great. Ciara loved it because she’s just learned what the animals are.”

And Mr Andreae added: “It’s a great way to keep her busy at the weekend.”

Other unusual sights included the annual National Backswording Tournament.

Jed and Deryl Pascoe, from the Aisle O’Var Backswording Clubbe, were among those who fought. Mr Pascoe said: “It’s a tradition that’s been revived for the Uffington Show and our club has been taking part for about 10 years.

“The show’s great, there is so much stuff here.”

Paul and Debbie Mills, from Highworth, attended with children Liam, 13, and Leanna, nine.

Leanna said: “The crafts stalls are my favourite but the girls on the horses are good too.

“It’s a really good, fun day.”

The show went down a storm with 11-month-old Sienna Carash, from Cricklade, pictured above with grandparents Ivor and Sue Hayward.

Mr Hayward said: “She’s been laughing her head off.”

And his wife added: “It’s her first time at something like this, but we’re regulars. We like the variety of stuff they put on.”

Sue Davies, 61, from Minster Lovell, was also enjoying a day out with her grandchildren Lawson, four, and Bo, two.

She said: “We’re having a good time, it’s lovely. ”

The show was first put on to raise cash to replace the Uffington Village Hall, and cash was raised by 1975.

The show continues today and tickets cost £10 or £7.50 for concessions.