THE 53rd annual ploughing match was held near Crewkerne and saw one of the competitors returning after a 50-year break.

Graham Farmer, of Buckland St Mary, last competed in the Crewkerne Young Farmers Club match in 1966 when he finished in third place.

Philip Hardwill of Crewkerne YFC said: “Mr Farmer said he was turning out a cupboard and found his prize card and thought it was time for another attempt.

“After heavy rain the skies cleared to provide perfect ploughing conditions for the 53rd annual, which was held at land near Nash Lane, Chillington.

“The spectators enjoyed the sunshine whilst Ricky Atrill won the champion ploughman championship and the reversible ploughing championship was won by David Dosson, of Bridgwater.

“John Harris was the champion three furrow ploughman on a tractor bought for him to use on his father’s farm when he left school 53 years ago.”

Crewkerne YFC member Daniel Hurley of Haselbury Plucknett near Crewkerne took the trophy for the highest placed young farmer.