The Bath and West Showground, near Shepton Mallet, was bustling last week as more than 5,000 visitors came along to celebrate the future of dairy farming at the 40th Dairy Show.

More than 250 trade stands lined the avenues and filled the buildings, all showcasing the latest machinery and technology.

Headline sponsors, Mole Valley Farmers, said: "The Dairy Show provided us with a great opportunity to connect with our valued farmers and the wider agricultural industry.

"We enjoyed the positive atmosphere, the opportunity for face-to-face conversations and look forward to supporting this event in the years ahead."

Chairman of the Dairy Show, David Cotton, said: "We had to make some changes due to the circumstances, but this has given us a chance to put the spotlight on our young handlers, showing off their skills and abilities in presenting the next generation of dairy stock.

"Showmanship is so important and will definitely always have a place on the farm."

A wide range of classes took place throughout the day on the Wednesday, including Guernsey, Jersey, Holstein and Any Other Dairy Breed.

It was a close battle between the Jerseys and the Holsteins who were herds above the rest, but the Jersey scooped the top prize on the day with the Davis family winning Supreme Champion with Rivermead Bubba Lexi.

Alan Lyons, head of shows at the Bath and West, said: "We are so pleased that we were finally able to bring the Dairy Show back, after a break due to Covid-19.

"Seeing the showground lively with visitors, trade stands and exhibitors was a welcome sight after what has been a very challenging year for everyone.

"We are very grateful to be ending the year on a high and would like to thank everyone for joining us this year."

The Dairy Show will return next year, on October 5 2022