Crowds flocked to the Great Yorkshire Showground today for the start of this year’s record-breaking event.

Farmers in the Bradford district were among the 12,020 entrants taking part in the three-day show’s competitive classes, with eight of the 24 sections seeing their highest-ever entry figures.

Robert Bradley, a hobby farmer from Queensbury, was showing four Highland Cattle. His 12-year-old daughter Jessica claimed third prize for their bull. He said: “It’s a good way to meet many different people from all over the country.”

Charlotte Ormandroyd, 20, also of Queensbury, showed a Hereford cow and was due to return today with some commercial cattle. She said: “This is my tenth year at the Yorkshire Show. I like the competitive atmosphere and the commercial side of things. I have got friends up and down the country through showing cattle.”

Show director Bill Cowling said: “We have records in eight sections – cattle, sheep, pigs, angora goats, poultry, pigeons, horse shoeing and cheese. We’re absolutely delighted as it is a clear indication of the high regard in which the show is held and our sales of advance tickets have been excellent.”

Among the thousands of visitors to the first day was Princess Anne who was presented with a white rose before being shown some of the animals entered in the show.

The event also includes the Great Yorkshire Cheese and Dairy Show, sponsored by Bradford-based Morrisons. Agricultural entertainment, show jumping, falconry and gundog demonstrations are also taking place.

Tickets are available from the Yorkshire Show offices and Fodder shop and cafe at the showground, at selected tourist information centres and Morrisons supermarkets.

Ticket prices are: adults £21, concessions £20, children £10, family tickets (for two adults and three children) £55.