An early start for Vintage Agricultural Show runners

The horses are ready to help out with some heritage haymaking and other historical farm activities this weekend, with the largest 750kg in weight and 19 hands, or two metres, high.

‘It was a very long day,’ said Ray Dawkins, the owner of two shire horses, which had travelled from Ashford Kent.

‘The worst part was that it was a bit too hot, but the horses coped really well.

‘By the time we unloaded it was almost dawn.’

Organising committee president Ron Le Cras said the horses were so big they had to bring their own harnesses.

‘We couldn’t find anything locally to fit them so they have had to bring everything with them, including the equipment for hay making,’ he said.

‘They will be well rested and ready to show everyone what they can do by the weekend.’

On the same ferry was the vintage funfair, and by 9am the same morning the team had already constructed the 136-year-old merry-go-round.

‘There wasn’t much point going to sleep so we just cracked on,’ said the ride’s owner Anthony Horton.

‘We got a little sleep on the ferry but will work through now to get the toy roundabout and chair-o-planes ready too.’

Among the usual favourites, including tractor displays, military and classic vehicles, sheep racing, stalls, refreshments, beer tent and live music, the show is hosting its first-ever gymkhana.

‘This will be on both days,’ said Mr Le Cras.

‘It’s especially for the younger riders and novices and should be great fun, for the riders and audience alike.’

The gates of the Route des Paysans site open on Saturday at 10am, with the show going on until 11pm. On Sunday the show is open from 10am until 6.30pm.

There is parking on site.

Admission for people over 16 is £9 a day or £12 for a two-day ticket. Children aged 5-15 can enter for £4 a day or £6 for a two-day ticket, with under-5s free.

The weekend could start damp but the forecast then improves.

• More information can be found at www.facebook.com/thevintageagriculturalshow.