THOUSANDS of revellers came down to enjoy activities and excitement by the waterside at a popular country show.

The 14th annual Blackwater Country Show saw everything from police dogs to ponies and dare-devil jumping motorbikes in Heybridge on Sunday.

The Tigers children’s motorbike display team thrilled the audience with stunts on the ground and in the air.

And faces lifted to the sky to watch birds of prey soar at 130mph above the crowd’s heads.

Essex Police operational unit dogs and their handlers gave a lively demonstration showcasing the types of incidents officers and dogs are trained to deal with.

The warm weather brought people to the waterside as they relaxed on picnic rugs to watch Newfoundland dog rescue demonstrations.

Show-goers also took to the water in canoes and kayaks, tried clay pigeon shooting, archery and met farm animals, including horses and alpacas.

Rosettes were awarded to winners and runners-up of the popular dog show, and the Pony Club’s ‘The Only Way is Essex’ team won the jump event.

Co-organiser Garry Hills said: “We’d like to extend a big thank you to everyone who helped to bring the show together to create a fantastic day out.

“We are looking forward to the 15th annual show next year.”