THE coronavirus crisis was not going to stop the 72nd Hatton and District Show as it moved online for the very first time.

Thanks to the power of social media and a great community spirit, the virtual show was a huge success, with more than 1,000 votes cast in the Horticultural Show alone through Facebook and the show website.

Alongside, the traditional classes, new ones were specially created for this year’s show in lockdown craft, loaf of bread and first attempt at growing veg.

In the end, Best in Show with 79 votes went to Gloria the chicken, entered by George Beardsworth in the farm section.

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The Horse and Pet Show, which always attracts crowds on show day, was just as popular on Facebook, with classes ranging from magnificent mares to cutest puppy.

Chair of Hatton Show, farmer Tim Horton said: “People have really embraced this year’s show and we would like to thank everyone for their support.

“Despite these difficult times for all of us, it has been a wonderful opportunity to showcase the amazing talents and keep the interest in agriculture and horticulture alive in our community today, more than 125 years after The Hatton and District Show was started back in the 1890s.

“We look forward to seeing everyone for real on September 11 2021 back in Daresbury.”

The Hatton Show is one of just a handful in the country to be held entirely under canvas, which means fundraising to cover the costs of the marquees and insurance carries on throughout the year.

The show committee has thanked everyone who entered for their donations and visitors to socially distanced stalls in Moore and Daresbury on show day.

The winners can be viewed at hattonshow.wordpress.com and Facebook.