The recession-beating Royal Cornwall Show got under way at the Wadebridge showground on Thursday under clear skies with a cooling wind to keep the crowds happy.

Show officials reported booming business with trade stands full and early signs of a record attendance.

Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association secretary Chris Riddle said he and his team were looking forward to a successful show, which this year has attracted visitors and exhibitors from as far afield as Scotland, Holland and Belgium, with one farmer bringing cattle down from Yorkshire.

Show spokesman Paul White said the early signs were that the recession had not deterred traders and exhibitors – 'even the motor show, a regular feature of the event, was fully booked with a waiting list for stand space indicating that fears over the state of the economy and the motor industry have not caused any loss of confidence in the Royal Cornwall Show as a marketplace for their products.'

The main guest this year is Princess Alexandra who is due to arrive today.