Aptly named Indian Runner ducks lived up to their reputation at the sun-baked Fordingbridge Show on July 15, 1989.

As temperatures soared into the 80s, the athletic birds made a dash for the shade, escaping the main arena and heading straight for the members’ enclosure.

The ducks had been stealing the show in a novel sheepdog and duck demonstration but couldn’t resist the lure of cooler climes.

Fortunately, a six-year-old collie named Lad, with the help of a society member, swiftly rounded up the feathered fugitives and returned them to the arena.

Show chairman Terry Turner was delighted with the event’s success, reporting a bumper attendance of 14,000 – a 2,000 increase on the previous year.

The show also enjoyed record support from local businesses, with all 106 stands booked up weeks in advance.