GREAT Harwood Show organisers said their success was ‘unstoppable’ after thousands turned up despite long periods of rain.

Bosses at Great Harwood Agricultural Society, which runs the annual event, said they had not seen record numbers, as happened last year, but had still attracted impressive crowds.

The bank holiday event yesterday saw the car park filled by noon and cars directed to an overspill parking area in the afternoon.

Indoor events saw tents filled but outdoor displays still attracted crowds, kitted out with umbrellas, wellies and pop-up tents.

The society’s secretary Rona Westell said she was impressed by show goers’ tenacity.

She said: “Everyone is really persistent in having a good time in spite of the rain. Just walking around you can see that everyone looks happy.

“I think we are only slightly down on last years numbers too. Last year was a record figure of 10,000, but I would guess we are not far off, at about 8,000.

“There have been a lot of indoor events, like the arabian dancers, a craft tent for children plus the indoor cafe and bar. However people seem intent on experiencing all the attractions we have to offer this year”.

Visitors at the event gave the show the thumbs up.

Mark Jones, 32, from Oswaldtwistle, said: “The kids have been looking forward to it, so we just put them in wellies and waterproofs to see how we got on.

“I think it’s been really well planned. The crafts tent in particular was a good idea.”

Rebecca Mathers, from Accrington, 25, said: “I come to the show every year and a bit of rain won’t keep me away. It’s been a good event in spite of that. Everyone is smiling and laughing.”