Hundreds pack out Southsea for the biggest Rural and Seaside Show yet

The Rural and Seaside Show opened up to the public on Saturday and is due to conclude today.

The free three-day spectacle on Castle Field has everything from live entertainment, stalls, animal displays and archery.

Andrea Wingfield, of Southsea, watched the action yesterday with husband Phil, 38, son Toby, six and friend Jenny Chandler, 58.

The 42-year-old said: ‘This is the first time I’ve been to the show and it’s just lovely. It’s such a friendly event.’

A delighted Toby added: ‘I loved watching all the dogs and the cars – that was my favourite part.’

There was plenty of family favourites on offer, from heavy horse displays, donkey rides, sheep grazing, classic cars, ferret racing and archery.

New to this year’s programme was the Canine Corner – which was loaded with dog shows and displays – and the chainsaw carving.

Heather Todd assistant events manager for Portsmouth City Council said there was plenty more still to see today, with show jumping throughout the day.

She added: ‘There’s nothing else quite like this. We were concerned sharing the day with the Summer Show but it’s been a brilliant success. It’s one of the best yet.’

The Rural and Seaside Show runs from 10am to 5pm.