Country-lovers have braved the elements to turn up in their droves for the first two days of the South of England show.

Despite constant rain and heavy wind, 18,000 people showed up on the first day – just 1,000 less than last year.

Organisers said they were pleased with the turnout and praised the public’s “Jubilee spirit”.

A spokeswoman said: “People got out their waterproofs, put up their umbrellas and carried on.”

Both the showjumping and motorcycle display team performance were postponed yesterday, but organisers hope for a full day of events today.

Among the final day’s highlights will be the young farmers’ tug-of-war, the horse shoeing competition, the sheep show and cattle and livestock parade.

William Goodwin, vice-chairman of the South of England Agricultural Society, defended the postponement of events saying the “safety of guests was paramount”.

Tickets, £18 for adults, and £15 concessions, are available on the gate.

SATURDAY JUNE 9

Judging: stock leaders competitions, equestrian, heavy horse turnouts, mountain and moorland ridden classes, Shire horses, showjumping, working cobs, working hunter classes, poultry, pygmy goats, rabbits, young farmers’ classes, young farmers’ Tug of War

Displays: Cattle and livestock parade, Inter hunt relay, Horse shoeing competitions, The Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Display Team, Titan the Robot, The Royal British Legion Youth Band, Agricultural machinery, The Sheep show, Hunt parade and pageant

Music: The Casablanca Steps, Vic Ellis One-Man-Band