A SPECTACULAR motorcycle stunt display opened the 97th instalment of a landmark event in the New Forest calender.

Every seat surrounding one of the two main arenas at the New Forest and Hampshire County Show was taken as this year's headline act roared into view.

Motorcycle stunt king Jamie Squibb wowed the huge crowd on the opening day of the show at New Park, Brockenhurst.

The 35-year-old daredevil staged a variety of gravity-defying tricks as his bike leapt the 70ft gap between two ramps - one of which was mounted on the back of a lorry.

One of his stunts involved doing a handstand on the saddle with his legs stretched out behind him.

During other jumps he swung the bike sideways 40ft above the ground before straightening up just in time to land on the opposite ramp.

But his stunning mid-air somersaults received the biggest cheers from the thousands of spectators watching his every move.

Jamie and one of his fellow stunt riders are performing every afternoon at the three-day show, which is expected to attract at least 95,000 people.

Exhibitors include Hampshire duo Greg Bailey and Jude Massey, who are displaying the boat in which their aim to row the Atlantic next year in a bid to raise £100,00 for research into skin cancer.

Spectators can also meet Del Boy and Uncle Albert from Only Fools and Horses.

Two lookalikes played by Steve Rooney and Ray James are visiting the show with a replica of Del Boy's three-wheel van.

The traditional variety of animal show rings, vintage agricultural vehicles and produce markets are also on display throughout the event.

The show continues today and tomorrow, with tickets available online or on the gate.