SPECTACULAR displays, fabulous hats and fans to keep everyone cool were out in force for the opening day of this year’s New Forest Show.

The popular event at New Park, Brockenhurst, drew big crowds as temperatures rocketed throughout the day, with many making the most of any available shade.

One elderly lady was taken away in an ambulance with suspected heat stroke as temperatures hit 27 degrees by 3pm.

Animal handlers were advised not to keep their charges outside for extended periods as the summer’s heatwave continued.

The wide-range of breeds were kept hydrated with extra water, while fans were set up around the pens to ensure handlers and animals remained comfortable.

Organisers at this year’s show have also installed extra taps in all the food courts so that the visitors can stay hydrated.

Sam Dovey, rings committee official, said: “We are asking everybody to act with due care. But they are outside animals and we are more concerned with making sure everybody stays hydrated. We have all the vets on site. They are keeping an eye on them.”

The event is marking 98 years since since the establishment of the New Forest Agricultural Show Society, who organise the New Forest Show, with the first instalment taking place over one day in 1921.

This year’s show continues today and tomorrow. The weather is expected to stay hot for the remainder of the event, with highs of 27 degrees forecast today.