THE Dufton Show committee is celebrating a bumper year for its 2004 event.

Despite poor summer weather for gardeners, entries in all areas, including flowers and produce, were up this year and more than 200 children entered art, crafts and cookery in the industrial tent, while the gate money ten per cent up on last year.

Secretary of Dufton Agricultural and Sheep Dog Trials Society Jean Elliott said: "It has been a brilliant show this year with entries up in all areas.

"The industrial tent was very good, and the flowers and produce entries were excellent considering the very bad weather we have had this summer, making it a very difficult year for gardeners.

"We were very fortunate to have fine weather, unlike many of the other shows this year. The gate was up this year on last, and we were delighted so many children have taken part."

Winner of the Perpetual Challenge Cup for most points in produce section went to Karen Richie, of Skirwith. The Perpetual Challenge Cup for most points in miscellaneous classes, given by Mrs J. Dargue, went to Mrs J. Thistlewood, of Blencarn, Penrith.

A trophy to be held for one year, given by the Hon. Mrs D. Stuart for the most imaginative entry in miscellaneous class, went to Michelle Coyle, of Kirkby Thore.

Established in 1864, Dufton Show is a popular event in the agricultural calendar and this year sheep and cattle returned to the show ground.

Following a day including gymkhana, open jumping, driving, horticulture, children's sports, fell race and much more, the committee rounded of the annual show with a barbecue and dance in the evening.