The Devon County Show starts in style

Despite a few downpours, spirits have not been dampened at the first day of the Devon County Show where everything from sheep-shearing to shetland pony racing has been pleasing the crowds.

At the heart of this agricultural show are the animals. Livestock from far and wide has been preened and primped in readiness for the judging.

But it's not just today, they animals and their owners been getting ready since the beginning of the year.

As well as the livestock, there is of course the pride of the West Country's local produce. There are 130 entries in the craft cider competition this year, which will be judged.

There was a Royal visitor to the showground today as the Countess of Wessex popped by.

One of the highlights of this year's show is the 30,000 knitted and crochet poppies to create a magnificent spectacle representing every man, woman and animal lost in the First World War in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.

From Shetland Pony racing...

...to a monster truck display, the Devon County Show is full of surprises.

The Devon County Show runs from 18 to 20 May 2017 at Westpoint.