Not surprisingly, it was the livestock shows that attracted the largest crowds as cattle, sheep and goats were paraded around the enclosure.

Dairy farmer Elizabeth Grose, 60, of Manaccan, on The Lizard peninsula was with her three grandchildren, showing off their two three-month-old Guernsey cows in one of the contests.

She said: "Our family has been coming to the show for the past 25 years – we wouldn't miss it. It's a great chance to see our farming friends. It's incredible to see how much the show has changed over the years – it's all so modern now compared to years ago."

Claire Moss, 35, had travelled from Exeter with her family to enjoy the show. She said: "I'm from a farming family and never miss the Royal Cornwall. I love it. The atmosphere is just brilliant and every year there are more and more stalls.

"It's events like these that remind us all what a great agricultural tradition we have in the Westcountry – and we should be proud."

Meanwhile, at the opposite end of the showground, hundreds of people were cramming into the massive flower tent where competitions had been taking place all day. An explosion of colour met the eye with countless flowers and trees ranging from the vibrant red, pinks and lemons of the chrysanthemums to the subdued hues of the bonsai tree.

John Trott, owner of Mendip Bonsai Studio, was displaying a number of trees including a ginkgo which dates back to 1948. He said: "People really seem to like the bonsai trees. I think it's simply because they are miniature and if you live in a flat or don't have a garden you can still enjoy the beauty of a tree. We've been coming here for the past 10 years and business is going well for us. It's a great event."

The show is also a good opportunity for charities to rally support and raise funds. For the past 12 years, the Gurkha Welfare Trust South West has pitched its tent at the showground, complete with Scottish piper.