SHOWERS and clouds didn't stop this year's Newton Show attracting a record number of visitors.

More than 5,000 people flocked to the event on Saturday - with several residents even climbing out and sitting on their rooftop to watch two army attack helicopters land in the show's Mesnes Park venue.

And as these pictures taken by Newton-le-Willows' Mac Photography www.macphotos.co.uk show it was a huge event.

It was the 40th anniversary of the community attraction - which began in 1959 but has been reinstated in recent years due to demand.

Newton-le-Willows councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron, chairman of the show's organising committee, said: "It was brilliant. Strangely, despite the weather, it was our busiest one yet.

"More than 5,000 attended over the day and the community support was massive.

"It was that busy that shops on the High Street had to close on Sunday due to having no stock left."

He added: "Residents from Willow Avenue even climbed out onto their bungalow roof to watch the helicopters land in the park!

"People were mesmerised by the them."

The helicopters, known as 'Hueys', are a type which were widely used to transport injured soldiers from the frontline during the Korean War and the United States' war with Vietnam.

Other show highlights included Molly Neal singing in the arena as well as Haydock Male Voice Choir, a stunt performance by Inch Perfect Trials motorbikes and a classic car display, whose organisers Kenny and Colin Jackson have attended every town show with their vehicles.

During the day, a fire engine was renamed in tribute to firefighter Dave Thomas, who died in 2013

Cllr Gomez-Aspron said: "Everyone who volunteered on the day, plus the regulars who help organise it, are a credit to the town. It's a hard slog, and you fear the worst with the rain. But the town turned a blind eye to the weather and came out in force."

The show, hosted by the non-profit Newton and Earlestown Community Group, also included a segway rally and the Valley Brass Band.

All donations and proceeds will go towards next year's event as well as funding local groups' and schools' projects throughout the year.