VISITORS to a country fair were spoilt for choice as the annual event enjoyed its biggest and best year ever.

Despite wet and drizzly conditions, thousands of people flocked to Hurworth Grange, near Darlington, on Saturday (September 20) to enjoy the Hurworth Country Fair.

The fair, which is now in its fourth year, boasted more than 50 trade stalls, as well as entertainment from 3Sixty stunt bike display team and dancing from youngsters at Born to Dance studio, in Northgate, Darlington.

The Newton Aycliffe Pipe Band was also on hand to mark the beginning of the event, which was officially opened by Darlington mayor Gerald Lee.

Keith Sandick, manager of Hurworth Grange Community Centre and a key organiser said: “We were really pleased with it and had a really good time.

“The entertainment was very good and we had loads of different animals, including goats wandering around like dogs.

“We were very well supported by the major hotels and Rockliffe Hall did a Ready Steady Cook challenge.

“We haven’t had any bad feedback and I think the only criticism would be that we had too much on.”

Mr Sandick thanked the volunteers who have helped the fair to grow over the past four years, and appealed for volunteers to help with next year’s event.

For more information call 01325-720840 or visit hurworthgrange.co.uk