ANIMALS of all types could be found around every corner at the Cricklade Show.

Ferrets, dogs, mice and hedgehogs were some of the creatures encountered by delighted children at the show yesterday.

And horse jumping, ferret racing and falcon displays formed only a part of the busy programme of entertainment. Families packed a field on Chelworth Road and weather was good, much to the delight of those who attended.

The show's organisers wanted to ensure that children got a close-up experience of animals and the line-up of activities gave them ample opportunity.

Ferrets Eve, Chris, May and Zoe repeatedly raced up and down through coloured tubes to the cheers of young supporters.

Parents escorted their children on donkeys around a course.

A large crowd gathered around the rainbow coloured stiles of the Swindon and District Animal Haven throughout the day.

Families got to meet homeless hedgehogs, kittens and mice.

Ella Greenwood, nine, from West Swindon admired a furry rabbit rescued by the haven. "I think the show is very good," she said.

"There are lots of things to do and animals and funny things going on."

Mum Sarah Greenwood, 42, was impressed with the falcons.

"The show seems great," she said. "I headed straight to the birds of prey display, as I love them."

Thereasa Davies from Cricklade went with her children Kiera, 10, and Jack, 14, and husband-to-be Nick Holden.

She said: "This is our second year coming. It is going well and there seems to be a lot more people here compared to last year." Kiera said: "I think it is a lot better than it was before. There is a lot of excitement with the horses. I think they have put in a lot of effort."

The main arena played host to Minety Dance School, Philip Oldham's birds of prey and Mad Pete the Magician.

Local riders tested their skills as part of the horse show - battling to clear a 5ft wall.

Dogs were also put to the test on obedience and agility.

Cricklade show public entertainment secretary Sarah Elliott estimated that about 7,000 people turned up.

"We wanted to provide a fun day out for all the family with a country pursuit theme," she said.

"We wanted families to come here all day and not have to spend much money to have fun.

"We have tried to let children see animals close-up that they would never have the opportunity to touch and stroke."

All profits from the day will be donated to local groups including the Cricklade Leisure Centre.