THOUSANDS of people have flocked through the gates at Dorchester Showground marking the opening of this year's Dorset County Show.

Crowds took good advantage of the weather to visit the much-loved event as it celebrates its 175th anniversary.

The show, backed by the Echo, featured a familiar line-up of favourites and a few new additions to keep crowds entertained.

The White Helmets jumped through flames in the main ring, performing a series of daredevil stunts.

This was complemented before and after by show jumping events and a vintage tractor display.

Other events taking place around the site included cattle judging and sheep judging. The countryside arena also played host to a dog and duck show.

Meanwhile, those keen to do a spot of shopping had a chance to browse the range of goods on offer, from freshly made pies to brand new cars.

Kara Harris, from Dorchester, attended the show with family and friends.

She said: “It’s the highlight of Dorchester’s year as far as I’m concerned.

“There’s always something different every year added onto the show besides the regular ones we enjoy seeing.”

Today also saw a number of winners declared in various classes and categories.

Dinah Lindon-Critchley, from Blooming Hill Plants, had good reason to celebrate after picking up a gold award in the Floral and Gardening Pavilion.

She said: “It’s very good. I like to get something like silver but gold is much better. It means I’m doing something right.”

Dinah said she had returned to the show after a two-year gap.

She said: “It’s a weekend out. I love the people. I love the show.

“Now we have moved near Sherborne, I have no excuse not to be here.”

The show is set to host a similar line-up of events tomorrow with the championship presentations taking place inside the main ring in the afternoon.

Prior to this there will be a special Harvest Service filmed by the BBC’s Songs of Praise.

People are being encouraged to arrive early if they’d like to take part. The service will be held at 11am near the sheep shearing stage.

The gates will be open from 8.30am. Much like today, Damory Coaches will be providing a round robin bus service tomorrow connecting the showground with Dorchester town centre and other parts of the town.