Events

The 152^nd Great Yorkshire Show takes place on Tuesday 13, Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 July, at Harrogate when more than 130,000 visitors are expected to come through the gates.

The annual farming and countryside showcase is now the premier agricultural show in England which every year attracts more than 12,000 entries across the competitive classes – cattle, show jumping, pigs, sheep shearing… to name but a few.

Honorary Show Director Bill Cowling said: “The popularity and reputation of the show is based on its commitment to staying true to its farming roots, whilst ensuring it is innovative and has plenty to attract the general visitor. So whether your interest lies in farming, fashion, food or flowers, there will be plenty to entertain and inform.”

In recent years the cattle section has been oversubscribed with more exhibitors wanting to bring stock, than the show could accommodate. A waiting list has operated on a first come first served basis, with a limit of no more than four beef and six dairy animals per breed per exhibitor. To celebrate their 40^th anniversary, Simmentals will have a dedicated marquee close to the cattle lines which will provide space for up to100 cattle.

Mr Cowling explained: “Using the marquee should help the situation as it will free up stalls in the cattle lines for use by other breeds. We are looking forward to a strong Simmental entry as we are delighted be hosting their anniversary celebrations.” Last year there were a total of 1,113 cattle entries.

Also new for 2010 will be the Innovation Centre which will showcase technological developments in agriculture. The Centre will include practical exhibits and demonstrations and will be staged in conjunction with both industry and agricultural scientists.

Around the showground attractions include:

o        Top class show jumping and equine classes

o        Food Hall with the region’s best food & drink

o        New-look Garden Show

o        The Gurkha Band

o        Buldogs Lings Motorcycle Display Team

o        Fashion shows

o        Cookery theatres

o        New equine classes

o        International sheep shearing competitions

o        Demonstrations of country skills – dry stone walling, fly fishing, gundog training

o        Hundreds of stands for plenty of shopping!

…. and more than 5,000 of Britain’s best cattle, sheep and pigs competing for the coveted championship awards.

The Great Yorkshire Show is organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

Tickets are available from Monday 1 March 2010, either on line – go to www.greatyorkshireshow.co.uk or call 01423 541222. Parking is free and extensive.

Tickets bought in advance       Tickets bought on the gate

Adult:  £18                                      Adult                £21

Concession:  £17                        Concession:  £20

Children:  £8                                 Children:         £10

Family:  £47                                   Family:            £55

Gates open at 7.30am and close at 7.30pm on Tuesday and Wednesday and 6.30pm on Thursday.