ALRESFORD Show last September enjoyed a near-record attendance, according to the annual report of the Alresford and District Agricultural Society.

The weather was fine until a downpour at 4.30pm caught everyone by surprise.

Val Watley joined the team as secretary in January and has introduced more efficient working. She is very keen to record all members’ email addresses so email her secretary@alresfordshow.co.uk with contact details.

Chris Lillywhite and his team continue to improve traffic management, car parking and the pay stations. The technology for credit cards worked and now almost 30 per cent of the entrance money is now taken in electronic form.

Society chairman Charlie Corbett paid tribute to John Curtis who has stood down as chief steward of the heavy horses, a role he has filled since 1973.

“We are all grateful for all he has done for the society over those years,” said Mr Corbett.

Total society income to October 31 2013 was £204,553 up from £185,837 the previous 12 months, the annual general meeting heard last Wednesday.

After costs the surplus was slightly down at £13,654, from £14,258.