One of the biggest events in the Kent calendar is hotting up - so much so that some of the star performers have been forced to seek out the shade.

The Kent County Show has been under way for just a few hours, with thousands of people pouring into the Detling Showground to join the fun.

Some of this year's most highly anticipated attractions have been given their first showing, including The Household Cavalry taking to the ring for their musical ride and a Spitfire flyover bringing patriotic warmth to the hearts of onlookers.

But with the Mercury rising, show organisers took to Twitter to explain the grand parade of livestock would only be featuring cows as all other animals were finding conditions too hot.

Other livestock displays took place earlier today and equestrian enthusiasts were offered a good dose of show jumping and dressage.

But thrill seekers weren't left out either this year with the vertigo inducing poll climbing championship, high octane clay shooting, and pig racing still to come.

KMTV have been on the ground covering events as they unfold and have released a video of the show in pictures.

The Kent Messenger was out and about at the showground tweeting video of some of the attractions.

Both young and old have come to see what the county has to offer with an almost unending variety of things to see and do to suit anyone.

Jean Peak, visiting from Essex has come to the show for the last three years.

"I think it's brilliant. We have just seen the Household Cavalry and I found it wonderful and very emotional", said the 74-year-old.

It's an excellent event and I'm very impressed with it this year."

Visitor Georgina Hukins says she used to come to the County Show every year as a child and has returned this year to bring her three-year-old son Henry.

"This is the first time we have come in about 10 years but I came back today for my little one to see it all. He really wants to see the tractors", she said.

For many, the county show is just about having a good time but for others it means business.

Hundreds of traders have set up their stalls hoping to take advantage of the crowds.

Dominique Pitzzingrilli, owner of the The Little Pet Biscuit Company has brought her business to the show for the last four years.

"I love coming here, it's brilliant. I have had a few successful years here before so hopefully it will be the same", she said.

"As a visitor, there's so much to do you really can't see it all in one day."

Kent Fire and Rescue have used the occasion to introduce some new recruits, the animated Byrnes family, which are soon to have their own online cartoon series to raise awareness of fire safety.

As the temperature soars, some of the County Show's stars have had to step out of the limelight.

The Kent County Show team tweeted earlier today to announce that only cattle will be taking part in the grand parade of lifestock as it is too hot for other animals.