THE 44th Dunster Country Fair was blessed with fine weather which again saw thousands of visitors turn out for the event in the grounds of historic Dunster Castle last week.

It was a reward for the hard work put in throughout the year by the volunteer committee, whose members have already started to plan for the 45th country fair in 2023.

A plethora of activities were showcased this year and the main ring had a constant stream of entertainment from 10 am right through the day.

Pony Club games and the Shetland Pony Grand National were among the favourites while Jez Avery Stunt Shows made their debut and gave two performances, filling in for Scurry Driving and the Portuguese Lusitano Horses which had to withdraw.

There was also the return of Hawkeye Falconry, while a vintage tractor display thrilled all generations. In other rings there was the Exmoor Pony Show, Fell Pony Show, and the South West Group Shetland Pony show, as well as a talented group of K9 dancing dogs and have-a-go dog agility.

The Village Green was as popular as always, with the bar run by The Rest and Be Thankful, from Wheddon Cross, as visitors watched demonstrations such as thatching, wood turning, willow weaving, and wool spinning.

For the younger audiences there was also face painting and the ever-popular Punch and Judy show, as well as Exmoor Miniature Railway providing rides. Trade stands, a craft tent, and a food tent all helped to bulk out the things to do.

Thanks were given to fair director Jenny Thomas, whose father founded the event as a donkey derby 44 years ago, and who has been involved in running the fair since the start.