MORE than 3,000 people flocked to the 20th anniversary Studland Country Fair over the weekend.

Highlights of the event, that organisers say was the biggest in two decades, included a sand castle competition, a tree climbing demonstration and a 5 km fun run.

Organiser Martin Churchill said: “It has been absolutely marvellous. It was packed on Saturday – one of the busiest years we’ve ever had.

“It just went from strength to strength throughout the whole day.”

More than 240 runners took part in Sunday’s fun run, which was sponsored by New Forest Water and Honey Buns.

Other highlights included steam engines, a darts tournament, craft stalls, heathland walks and extensive National Trust demonstrations and displays.

Mr Churchill said: “Everybody said they loved the feeling of the event, as it was a real rural atmosphere. Now we have a brief window to relax before October, when preparations start on next year’s fair.”