The air was filled with the sounds of oinks and the roar of diggers at the annual Mayfield A&P Show.

The show, held on Saturday, was the 98th year of the event, and president Ben Morrow said he was extremely happy with how the day went.

“We had a great day weather-wise; there was a good turnout, and the competitions went well.”

Pig racing was a highlight of the day for spectators.

Races were held on the hour as sponsored piglets went head-to-head over a challenging obstacle course to the roar of the crowd.

Morrows’ father introduced pig racing to the show 31 years ago.

“My dad is helping my brother-in-law with the pig racing this year; it’s pretty cool having him involved.

“My parents, who are both past presidents, have been a great support these last few days.

“My mother has a great no-nonsense attitude; she just gets on and gets stuff done.”

Digger operators tested their skills in the first-ever Foothills Engineering Skills Champion Competition, completing intricate tasks such as pouring tea from a teapot, moving tyres and popping the cap off a bottle.

Alistair Parris from Mt Somers Excavation took home the trophy and said the competition was an excellent way to demonstrate the skills in operating an excavator.

“It’s part of the skills you use every day. It’s not all just crash and bash.

“If you are digging around power cables, for example, you have to be able to control the machine.”

Machinery enthusiasts could also view the huge array of vintage tractors on display from the Mid Canterbury Vintage Machinery Club.

Methven Heli Rural provided helicopter rides for those wanting a bird’s-eye view of the event, and children were kept entertained as Greg Britt, better known as Elgregoe the Magician, performed magic tricks.

A children’s pig-catching competition and a terrier race also proved a popular drawcard for crowds.

Trade exhibitors were well represented at this year’s show, and Diesel Tech from Methven won the Best Trade Site award.

A mixed pipe band with members from the Ellesmere Pipe Band, the Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band, and the Timaru Scottish Society played throughout the event and led the Grand Parade.

TV presenter, author and Rural Support ambassador Matt Chisholm was on-site at the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust tent.

Morrow said the show is an important way to bring the community together and encourage farmers to have a day off from farming.

“It’s such a good opportunity to get people out and catch up and chat.

“It’s a good community day out for everyone.”

By Claire Inkson