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In pictures: The 2021 Balmoral Show

Thousands of people have been flocking to the first day of Balmoral Show, the biggest event in the agri-food calendar in Northern Ireland.

The show is being staged for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, having been cancelled last year.

This year's event, which was postponed from its traditional date in May, is being held over four days at Balmoral Park, outside Lisburn.

It has returned with new entry rules which have been introduced to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Pacemaker Spectators with face masksPacemaker
Face masks were a new addition for the first Covid-era Balmoral Show
Pacemaker Cattle handlers at Balmoral ShowPacemaker
The competition can be intense as livestock handlers vie for Balmoral's coveted championship titles
Pacemaker There was a queue for the showers at the Balmoral ShowPacemaker
There was a queue for the showers at the Balmoral Show
Pacemaker A shampoo and a scrub ensured these cattle were looking their best for the judgesPacemaker
A shampoo and a scrub ensured these cattle were looking their best for the judges
Pacemaker Sheep shearingPacemaker
It was a "short back and sides" all round as sheep shearers put their skills to the test
Pacemaker Sheep shearing competitionPacemaker
Balmoral's sheep shearing competition is now in its 60th year
Pacemaker A show jumping tournament at Balmoral ShowPacemaker
The competitions also included a show jumping tournament
Pacemaker Pig competitionPacemaker
Some competitors couldn't help hogging the limelight in the pig pens
Pacemaker Cattle penPacemaker
After all the excitement of the competition ring, it was time to get a snack and hit the hay