GREY skies and teeming rain failed to deter sheep buyers, farmers and others from flocking to Sheep 2002 at the Three Counties Showground on Wednesday.

John Thornton, chief executive of the National Sheep Association, which organised the show, said the poor weather may even have helped. "They've come almost because of the weather," he said. "They can't do anything else at home and this is a really special show. It has all the right ingredients for the industry."

Every sort of sheep-rearing device, from electronic dippers to high-tech feed dispensers, was on display alongside more than 40 breed exhibitors' animals.

One of these was Andrew Bishop of Allan Bank Farm, Colwall, who had brought along examples of half-breeds sired by rams from his pedigree Texel flock.

He said the show was going well, despite all the rules and regulations that now apply to livestock movement and that the price he was receiving for his stock had improved recently.

Richard Lutwyche, of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, said he thought the event continues to provide a good forum for discussion and education.

"It's a very good show for getting together and meeting people," he said. "We always come to the annual shows at the Three Counties."