BUSTLING livestock displays and action-packed arena attractions attracted big crowds to the 210th Otley Show.

Giant tortoises also proved a hit at Wharfedale Agricultural Society's annual event, the first major show of the season, on Saturday, May 18.

Thousands of people headed to the Bridge End showground to see what this year's attraction had to offer - and were treated to everything from stunt riding to a farrier competition.

The display classes, including cattle, horses, dogs, poultry and pigeons and rabbits and hamsters, were well attended with more than 500 sheep on view.

The arena attractions, meanwhile, included a birds of prey demonstration featuring a giant Sea Eagle named Camilla who was watched from a safe distance by several local Red Kites.

Atkinson Action Horses, whose riders and animals feature in a number of hit TV shows, wowed spectators with a display of equestrian skill and daring.

And the Wharfdale Woofs flyball team's races, where the club's dogs sped over hurdles to collect balls, were also popular.

The weather forecast hadn't been great but the show enjoyed a dry morning and the crowds visibly started to grow after midday as the temperature climbed and the sun even briefly ventured out.

That was good news for the aspiring sailors out on the lake courtesy of Otley Sailing Club, who were offering a chance to try the sport as part of the national Push the Boat Out campaign.

Club stalwart Norman Stephens, who will celebrate his 50th year as a member in July, said: "We've had quite a few people out, though there's not been much wind, and a lot of interest from people wanting to know more about sailing and the club which is great.

"We're actually short of volunteers to help with our Thursday Sailfree - the club's award-winning programme of sailing for people with disabilities and complex learning needs - sessions at the moment so if anyone would like to help we'd love to hear from them: they don't need experience, we'll give them all the training they need."

Live music kept show goers happy too, with the Folk tent inspiring more than a few people to enjoy a jig to traditional tunes like Riding on a Donkey and Otley Brass Band giving several performances.

Younger visitors were spoilt for choice with giant inflatables, a climbing wall, Punch and Judy shows, a zipline and bungee swings among the fun on offer.

There was also a chance for people of all ages to have a go at building their own dry stone wall, cheer on one of Otley Ferret Welfare's races or enjoy the educational and amusing The Sheep Show.

The Wharfedale & Aireborough Observer caught up with a very busy Secretary Janet Raw at lunchtime. Overseeing her final show before retiring after 25 years' service, she declared herself pleased with how it had gone up to then: "It's been nice and busy."