THOUSANDS of people enjoyed an action-packed family day out at Malvern’s Three Counties Showground.

Young and old flocked to the venue last Thursday for the sixth annual CountryTastic event, which showcased the best of food, farming and the countryside.

The showground’s communications manager Sharon Gilbert said visitor numbers were up 17 per cent on last year’s CountryTastic, when about 5,000 people came through the gates.

Among the highlights this year was a visit by TV farmer Adam Henson, who features on TV show Countryfile.

Education manager at the showground Sue Hodgson-Jones said she was very impressed by the turnout. She said: “It really has been very, very busy. The crowds have been amazing despite the cold weather.

“It was great to have Adam here. He is a huge supporter of the show.”

Adam, who runs the Cotswold Farm Park near Guiting Power, helped with the animal and livestock parades as well as meeting many of the visitors.

Youngsters enjoyed egg decorating and making flower garlands, bird feeders and animal masks.

Their favourite farmyard animals, including alpacas, horses and pigs, were also on view.