The M6, M56 and the A556 were jammed as the number of visitors exceeded all expectations.

But fears that the problems would worsen over the weekend never materialised.

"What did throw our plans awry a little was the extra people who turned up on the first day and they all arrived at the same time," said Pc Ian Holly.

"But we made some adjustments to the plans and there were no problems after Thursday."

Traffic police and event organisers had met 20 times to finalise a strategy, but had under-estimated the show's popularity.

In town there were major queues on all roads into the town centre.

The police were inundated with complaints, but officers and RHS officials acted swiftly to change their plans.

Cars were diverted from the busiest entrances to other gates and the car parks in Tatton Park opened earlier.

On Monday officials met for a de-briefing on the show and will meet again in September.

"All issues will be discussed and there will be certain changes to the traffic plan next year," said Pc Holly.

As for visitors? Most said - despite the delays - they would be back next year.

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