The show this year is free of the spectre of foot and mouth

The Devon County Show has opened after months of preparation.

Thousands of people are expected to flood through the gates during the three-day event.

Weather forecasters say showers are set to fall throughout the annual festival at Westpoint, on the outskirts of Exeter.

It is the first time in two years the show will be free from the spectre of foot and mouth disease.

Restrictions removed

Even though the foot and mouth crisis had in effect passed when last year's show was held, restrictions were still in place.

The entire Westpoint showground was disinfected and sheep and goats were not exhibited because of movement restrictions.

But livestock levels are back up to pre-epidemic levels this year, with about 900 sheep and 150 goats on show, together with a large number of pigs and cattle.

There are also 700 stalls for the public to visit, continuing the efforts of show organisers to bring food and farming together.