A RAINY and cool first day of the 159th Great Yorkshire Show did not appear to deter visitors, according to director Charles Mills.

He said trade stands had reported a busier Tuesday than the same day last year, and nor did the rain cause any parking problems at the showground in Harrogate, which turned into a quagmire after heavy rain in 2012.

Now forecasters are predicting much drier and warmer weather on Wednesday and Thursday, with sunshine and temperatures rising to 20C by Thursday afternoon.

The prestigious Doncaster Cup was awarded to Richard Reah of North of England Bonsai in Thirsk who had the Best Floral Exhibit at the Garden Show.

The Michael Spink Memorial Perpetual Trophy, honouring dairy farmer Michael, tragically killed in January while working in New Zealand, was presented to Richard Baynes of Hexham with his champion Ayrshire heifer.