FARMERS and tractor enthusiasts from far and wide gathered at a ploughing match in Trowbridge to show off their best ploughing techniques to a panel of judges.

More than 40 competed in this year’s event in Elizabeth Way, which raised an estimated £600 for the chosen charities, Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Bath Cancer Support Unit.

Each entrant was given a plot depending on the size of the furrow being used.

They then had to demonstrate their best ploughing technique in front of a panel of experts.

The competitors were judged on how straight and even the furrow was, the start and finish and overall appearance of the finished product.

Organiser Ian Cradock said: “It was a lovely event and the weather was great for it.

“We were slightly down on numbers this year as there was another match on in Dorset which we clashed with.

“The amount we raised is still being totted up but we are pleased with the amount.”

The matches have been an annual event since 1993 and have become well known in the ploughing community.

Mr Cradock said: “The ploughing match has become quite a tradition and has been going since we used to plough with horses.

“It is well recognised around the area.

“We did ask a couple of entrants with horses to attend this year, but unfortunately they were busy at their own town’s match.

“It would be great if they could make it another year.

“Some regular competitors are members of the agricultural community.

“Many tend to follow in the footsteps of their parents if they are involved in agriculture, it’s in the blood for many of them and they like to take part in the ploughing matches as a hobby.

He added: “It’s a nice thing to do with like minded people.

“The first prize is £20, nothing you can retire on but it is all a bit of fun.”