Heavy rain fails to dampen spirits as show celebrates 180 years

This year marks the 180th annual show, and the Duke of Devonshire, the president of this year's event, described it as an "important showcase for the countryside".

He said: "Bakewell Show is the culmination of much hard work on the part of organisers, entertainers, sponsors and exhibitors.

"With the magnificent parade of livestock as the centrepiece of each day's entertainment, as well as the tasty food and farming section, there really is something for everyone at this year's show."

Organisers said the inclement weather had not affected the numbers of people coming through the gates and estimated that attendance was "at least as good as last year".

Attractions included a display from the Royal Artillery Flying Gunners – volunteer soldiers who perform on motorcycles first used in the Second World War.

Last year, an estimated 65,000 people attended the show over the two days and organisers are hoping that number is reached when the gates are opened again today.