IT may have been something to do with the hot, sunny weather or it may simply be that the lavender fields at Hartley Park Farm are a fabulous sight to behold.

Whatever the reason, a record 3,500 visitors converged on the farm near Selborne for an open weekend on Saturday and Sunday.

Owners Nick and Lyndsay Butler laid on a real treat of country living and fun for all ages, including Tractor Ted, chicken chucking and wellie wanging which gave delighted children the chance to drive mini-tractors or take a turn on a bouncy castle.

Visitors had the chance to walk the lavender fields, which were in full bloom, or the wildflower meadows, before stopping for a chat at the Surrey Beekeepers’ stand or to buy some of their honey.

There was also a chance to buy gifts in the farm shop, which is open all year round.

And what better on a lazy, warm day than to enjoy wine from Jenkyn Place Winery or a cream tea before going on a mini-tour of the farm while the children did their tour in style on a tractor and trailer.

Despite competing with England’s final World Cup game and the Wimbledon tennis championships, Nick said they had one of their best open days yet, complete with a record crowd which, he added, “will help fund our two charities, The Rosemary Foundation and Cardiac Risk in the Young”.