Day One of the Royal Bath and West Show

The Royal Bath and West Show may have started at Odd Down in Bath but it has taken place at the showground near Shepton Mallet for 50 years now.

Gates for the 153rd Bath and West show opened this morning with thousands of visitors pouring into the site. 500 traders are exhibiting and with all the livestock competitions, the food marquees and the displays in the central arena there was plenty to keep them occupied.

There wasn't a high profile political visitor today, as it coincided with the Queen's speech of the new Government, but we did catch up with ITV's own royalty - Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes, who is president of the show.

Just one of the images from the showground today - proud owners wrangling their cattle ready for those all-important judges.

The agricultural industry lies at the heart of the show - and it is an opportunity for the farming community to show off their best and brightest.

Ian Axton asked one first prize winner from Somerset just what it takes to be the best.

Much of the entertainment over the four days of the show is found in the main arena. Take a look at this Shetland pony race...

The jumps can't be too high when you only have little legs Credit: ITV News
And the crowd went wild... well, nearly Credit: ITV News
And the winner of the Shetland Pony Gold Cup is Belle Edwards (in the orange helmet) Credit: ITV News

Here's a little flavour of the first day of the show - introduced by Ian Axton and a young friend.