The Cambridgeshire County Show celebrated its 20th anniversary in style on Sunday (June 2), with 10,000 visitors descending on Wimpole Hall for a fun-filled day, writes Mike Scialom.

Highlights included a breath-taking show from quad bike stuntman Paul Hannam, magnificent eagles and vultures in flight from Birds of Prey Displays, Shire Horse Disco ‘Divas’, a wide array of food and drink – and cheeky terriers racing through the main ring.

One of the themes at this year’s event was robots: the organisers of the annual open-air jamboree had staged a design-a-farm-robot competition, launched as part of the show’s 20th anniversary celebrations. The winner was eight-year-old Leo Howell, who was presented with a 3D mock-up of his very own design in the show’s main ring by county show chair Emma Kelcher on Sunday afternoon.

Leo, who attends Ramsey Junior School, said: “My robot can shoot seeds into the ground and the seeds grow instantly. His feet blow water into the ground to help vegetables to grow. Its eyes also heat up like the sun to help germinate the plants.

“I did not think I would ever win, I’m excited – and surprised!”

The judges also awarded a special commendation to Leo’s twin brother, Luc, whose dinosaur-inspired robot design included a tail that could plough fields and rocket-feet that would allow it to jump without damaging the soil or crops.

The Howell family received two free family tickets and Luc won some Lego.

Mum Lydie said: “This is fantastic news. I am so happy for them – Luc and Leo both love art and this will definitely increase their confidence.”

Visitors were able to get a feel for the latest agritech, with the Small Robot Company unveiling a mini remote-controlled version of one of its pioneering farmbots.

Farm robot ‘Tom’ is part of the newest family of robots from the company, which is involved in the cutting-edge trials on Wimpole Home Farm.

Emma, who stepped into the role of county show chair this year, hoped that launching a robot competition would encourage more young farmers to get involved in food production.

She said: “The way we farm is changing at an astounding rate, with tractors controlled by GPS and drones giving early warning of pests. But also, more people are appreciating the taste of good food and local produce, and want to know more about how and where it is produced.

“We hope everyone found this year’s event the fun family day out that it always is, and that it was a great way to celebrate 20 years of country living.”