Competitors, spectators and their pets flocked to Walmer Castle’s paddock on Sunday to mark 40 years of the Walmer Horse and Dog Show.

Families soaked up the sun and enjoyed a jam-packed programme of exciting equestrian and canine sport.

Among those to stand out was six-year-old Annabel Sykes who came second with her 14-year old pink-tailed pony, Rosie, in the lead rein pony and fancy dress round.

Geoff Hirst and Anne Beecham worked with Mary Bowden to organise and run the Dog Show. They noted that 103 dogs were entered, with a continued enthusiasm for both the serious and the fun classes.

Show director Simon Pollard said: “The show ground activity and the takings from the entry fees suggest that numbers were up on last year.

“It is always a pleasure when competitors and families approach the team on the show ground to say how much they had enjoyed the day and to thank the organisers for their efforts.

“A mother was thrilled that her daughter had won a lovely big shield on which she could engrave her name.

Others, some going back to their childhood competing in the first and early shows, now enjoyed supporting their grandchildren.”

The majority of the competitors’ entry fees will be shared between three chosen charities – Riding for the Disabled Cornilo branch, Martha Trust, and animal welfare charity Chancepixies.

The committee has thanked all the sponsors which included Adamson Suzuki who continued their involvement as headline sponsor, judges and stewards Joanne Dare, Sarah Dare, Anne Mackay, Charlotte Langston, Debbie Wilson, Maddi Burchell, Rebecca Pollard, Nicola Pollard, Graham Webb, Millie Sykes and Anne Revell.

A special thanks has been given to show secretary Pam Stead who worked tirelessly with her team in the secretary’s tent receiving entries, issuing trophies and prizes, and recording results.

Mr Pollard added: “It is an honour and a privilege for Pam and myself to have led the show’s organisation over the more recent past years.

“It was a great achievement for the show to have reached its 40th anniversary when so many similar shows had fallen by the wayside over the past years.”

Brian Cole who started the show back in 1975 continues to be involved in its organisation.

For more pictures and the full list of winners, pick up this week's Mercury - out now.