THOUSANDS gathered for the annual Hampshire Country Sports Day at Tichborne to revel in hunting, horses and hounds.

Nearly 5,000 flocked to Tichborne Park, near Alresford, on Sunday (Sep 14) to see a range of new attractions in its main arena including the Inter Hunt show jumping competition, demonstrations from hunter gatherer Chris Green the Cornishman and from Jonathan Marshall Falconry.

Alison Hawes, show secretary, said: “We had a great day yesterday with an estimated 4,000-5,000 people attending the show. We had some new attractions this year which proved particularly popular. This included Jonathan Marshall, who gave a brilliant display of horsemanship and falconry.

“We also had a replica motorbike and side car from the Two Fat Ladies TV programme in tribute to Clarissa Dickson-Wright who was a great supporter of the show. This proved a big hit with the crowds.”

Hampshire Chronicle:

Two Lurchers race at the Hampshire Country Sports Day

Some 75 trade stands put on various displays, including hunting memorabilia, clothes and equipment, as well as a clay pigeon shooting competition.

Show chairman, Bill Tyrwhitt-Drake, said: “The Hampshire Country Sports Day is a great opportunity for newcomers to find out more about country pursuits, while enjoying a fantastic day out.”

Donations to the show, which has been running for over 30 years, will be give to the Countryside Alliance to help their campaign work to improve rural communities.