The 149th Great Yorkshire Show included both up-to-the-moment exhibits and traditonal events, attracting record enties for its competitions.

After a dip in entry numbers due to the cancellation of poultry classes last year, the competition was hotter than ever with an all-time high of 11,738 entires in the show.

The number beat the previous record of 11,472 set in 2005.

Record attendances

The cattle, sheep and pig classes proved among the most popular, seeing some of the highest numbers of participants since the show began.

All the regular attractions were available, including the ever-popular food hall, where visitors could sample a range of countryside produce and buy goodies to take home.

The fashion pavillion was a particular highlight with many guests, featuring creations by local designers in the Yorkshire Fashion Idol 2007 competition.

An inspiring feature of the pavillion was the display by students from Harrogate College.

The youngsters exhibited their work alongside trainee designers from other colleges in a feature that promoted the use of natural materials.

From farm to catwalk

The 'Sheep to Chic' show was designed to demonstrate the importance of farming and rural life to the world of fashion.

Once again the show demonstrated that its appeal lies in all age groups and backgrounds.

Among the visitors were three generations of the Cowgill family who came from Preston to enjoy the show.

Grandfather Maurice, 79, who has lived on a farm all his life, has been to the show almost every year. While he enjoyed the displays of vintage machinery, daughter-in -law Piri, 40, preferred the flowers and granddaughter Sabrina, ten, said she always liked the food hall.

Agriculture on a grand scale

Christine Lamb, 56, from Hartlepool, visiting for the first time with New Zealand-born husband Warren Anderson, 41, said they were amazed by the scale of the show.

She said: "We thought the entrance fee was too much, but we didn't realise how huge it was!"

Adam Dooley, 27, from Skipton, who runs a furniture company with his brother John, said he had come to the show for the first time as they were considering having a stand next year.

He said: "We've come to check out the competition!"

There were mixed views on the travel arrangements, but many visitors said they had arrived without serious problems.

Angela Nayes, 63, who was visiting for the second time with friend Ann Boulton, 66, said their journey from Wakefield had been only slightly slower than last year.

Anne said: "I think it is much better organised than last year. We are really going to enjoy ourselves!"

New features and displays, and a new emphasis on the environment, drew huge crowds to the Wetherby Road show ground.

The current issue of global warming was highlighted in the new Renewable Energy Zone.

Small-scale wind turbines and solar panels were among the features on display, with experts to show visitors how their homes could be more environmentally friendly.

The zone was part of the Discovery area, which focused on the environment, healthy living and the countryside. Visitors tested their skills as dry-stone wallers and took part in activities promoting physical and mental exercise.

Continuing the environmental theme, Yorkshire Brides challenged several designers to create ethical wedding dresses for its annual show at the fashion pavillion.

Gowns were made from old curtains, tablecloths and even a multi-coloured umbrella as participants tried to create recycled and organic outfits. Accessories included tin can tiaras, chopstick headdresses and recycled pieces of old, broken jewellery. There was even a suit for the groom, made of natural hemp.

Animals prove a big hit

The new Creatures Great and Small area, featuring animals that are not usually part of the show, was a hit with visitors. Sheep racing, duck-herding and terrier racing were on display , the area also continued the emphasis on the environment through an otter display emphasising the need to reduce pollution.

Children were also able to meet and learn about guinea pigs, hens, Shetland ponies and alpacas.

The Yorkshire Agricultural Society, which organises the event, said the increased train and bus services had been a huge success, helping to solve the traffic problems which beset last year's show.