Metal detectors and handbag searches at the entrances to the Annual Exhibition this morning failed to deter the crowds.

The extra security measures are in place at the Point Finger Road, the South Shore Road and Berry Hill Road entrances as families, school children and other members of the public inundated the first day of the show.

Police are also maintaining high profile patrols, and the Police mobile command unit is parked next to the main ring. CCTV cameras have also been installed with manned monitoring stations.

One officer at the South Shore Road entrance said today was traditionally for families and schools so there was little to worry about. He added: “It is all kids, but still we are on top of it. The next few days however will be busier. I think with the climate, the show visitors are happy with the level of security.”

The extra security measures have been taken in the wake of a series of shootings in the last few weeks which culminated in a bloody Easter Holiday, when two people were shot and injured and Kimwandae Walker was shot dead on the Victor Scott school playing field.

* For the full story and two pages of pictures see tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.