The Masham Sheep Fair is taking place this weekend in the heart of the North Yorkshire town, with not only hundreds of sheep on show but a whole host of events celebrating the different and varied breeds.

In Medieval times the huge market place at Masham would be packed with up to 70,000 sheep for the annual sale.

Over 30 years ago local people resurrected the event and while there are less sheep, the fair, which includes sheep showing, sheepdog demonstrations, racing and a fair, thousands of people are expected to attend.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Masham Sheep Fair attracted thousands of people to the  town

The fair will be held on Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1 across the town. Accompanying the event will be a flower festival in St Mary’s Church and competitions from sheep shearing to a fancy dress parade. There will also be Morris Dancing and tours of Theakston’s and Black Sheep breweries.

The event was first resurrected by organiser Susan Cunliffe-Lister and a band of willing volunteers as a one-off to raise money for farmers in Africa through Sheep Aid. Nearly £8,000 was made and it was decided it should become an annual fair raising money for local charities. Since then £158,700 has been raised for Yorkshire charities.

For information see https://www.mashamsheepfair.com/