Medieval broadsword fighters dressed in 14^th century costume squared off within a restricted fighting area, stopping to take photos with admiring visitors. 

Cradle Mountain broadsword fighter Pierre Jansen said the Western martial art felt invigorating, and required an adept level of hand-eye coordination. 

“It’s a family affair, my 23-year-old son, my wife and I, all three of us do it,” he said.

“Safety is paramount at all times, it’s safer than playing football.” 

He said he’d been involved in the sport for six years, and hoped to compete internationally. 

Longford Show secretary Kirsty Springer said aerial acrobatic performances were a new and main attraction – with up to 7000 guests expected on Saturday.  

Now in its 160^th year, Ms Springer said the animals, vintage machinery, tractors and wood chopping were the epitome of the annual agricultural event.