And anyone who had ever owned a car was sure to have been reunited with their original Ford Anglia, Morris Minor or even Jaguar E-Type, thanks to passionate owners who showed off their prize vehicles.
As well as vintage and classic road cars, commercial vehicles and buses, there was a parade of steam engines - both those used to mend roads and others that heralded the start of farm mechanisation. One large steam engine drove cutting wheels which demonstrated how a sizeable oak could be rendered into useful planks within minutes of start up.
Jay Miller's Circus provided on-site entertainment while children were fascinated by the display of rare amphibians and lizards. Trade stands and auto jumble were a popular draw for mechanics seeking a hard-to-find spare part. The inner man and woman were well taken care of thanks to a wide range of real ales, salads and hot dishes in the food hall. There were also plenty of food, drink and ice cream outlets around the ground.
For tension and excitement the legendary Wall of Death proved a must-see attraction.
The Laughton Showground is sited on the village's Heritage Field, also home to many other traditional country shows and events. They are set in more than 80 acres of prime English countryside housing three traditional oak framed barns and lakes.
5. by Roz Bassford
by Roz Bassford Photo: by Roz Bassford