IT was the local must-see annual event and a weekend marked on the calendars of most of the city's residents.

The three-day Southampton Show was officially opened in 1978 by television comedy couple Terry Scott and June Whitfield.

They were led by a military band and arrived at the common showground n a horse-drawn carriage during the opening ceremony on July 7.

After the ceremony, they toured the show site visiting marquees and exhibitions.

Daily Echo: Southampton Show - July 7-9 1978.

Thousands of people watched and more flooded into the site in the first few hours of the city’s once prestigious event.

It cost £58,000 to stage the show which meant at least 55,000 people had to attend just to break even. It was a figure that organisers were confident they could achieve.

More than 400 local organisations were represented in displays and exhibitions, with 200 trade stands.

One of the most spectacular events of the show was the top diver Alan Harrison who, three times a day, was hoisted by a crane before throwing himself into sponges 70ft below.

The crowds were entertained with flamenco dancing, wrestling, sheepdog trials, bands, DJs and more.