SIXTY years ago, the Three Counties Show was held for the first time at the purpose-built showground just below Malvern Wells.

Prior to that year, the show had been held at various venues across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, with each county taking turns to host the event.

Among the venues it was held at were the racecourses at both Hereford and Worcester, Spetchley Park near Worcester and Staverton Airport in Gloucestershire.

The 1958 show was visited by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, who praised the site in the shadow of the Malvern Hills.

The Malvern Gazette reported: "This royal accolade crowned much local endeavour to attract the show to Malvern, and to make it a success.

"During a stay of nearly four hours, she toured several of the main exhibits, watched part of an important jumping contest, and presented championship awards in cattle classes and long-service awards to farm workers.

"Although rain fell in adjacent areas the weather remained fine, warm and often sunny for the royal visit, and the Queen Mother received a great welcome from the large crowd.

"Before leaving the show, Her Majesty signed the distinguished visitors' books belonging to the Malvern Urban District Council and Malvern Chamber of Commerce.

"A bouquet was presented to the Queen Mother by Miss Briony Hastings, daughter of the show secretary.

"With the visit of the Queen Mother on the opening day, and entries which in some instances established new records, the Three Counties Show can be described as among the most successful that have been staged and a happy augury for the future of the new permanent site."