The growing success of Newark & Nottinghamshire County Show has been highlighted following the shock news that its neighbour, Leicestershire County Show, has been cancelled for 2010. This follows news last year of the demise of four other top shows; Lowther Country Fair, The Royal Show, Royal Lancashire and Royal Smithfield.

As a result of the Leicestershire cancellation, Newark – held on 8 and 9 May - will be the first major county show of the season. With gate numbers increasing year on year, organisers are anticipating a bumper crowd of visitors over the two days.

Show organiser Sally Devereux said: “It is always sad to see any long-standing show missing from the calendar. We are unaware of any reason why the decision has been taken to cancel Leicestershire Show but it emphasises the strength of Newark as a major event attended by over 55,000 people.”

Among the leading attributes of the show are its permanent facilities and easy access from the A1, A17 and A46 plus a massive free parking area which can hold 5,000 cars. Introduced last year in a move to help beat the ‘credit crunch’ children under 17 years will continue to be admitted free (provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult) and, as one of very few shows offering a warm welcome for dogs, Newark makes a truly fantastic day out for all the family.

“Our aim is to provide entertainment at an affordable price for all members of the family,” added Sally. “A successful mix of traditional agricultural show values with modern-day expectations that is economically viable is a fine balancing act. At Newark we have a recipe that works. That doesn’t mean we are complacent – every year we improve on the year before and there’s always something new for visitors to enjoy.”

Equine and livestock showing classes, heavy horses, top-class show jumping and the Cattle Parade provide the back-bone of the show, complemented by a growing number of quality trade stands - where visitors can buy everything from a pair of shoes to a wheelbarrow – the improved Food Court with local produce and real ale and the ever-popular Flower Show.

Making use of every inch of Newark’s 120-acre site, visitors enjoy a growing list of attractions including the Regia Anglorum (Kingdoms of the English) Living Saxon Encampment where history comes alive, an Environment Village, Village Green with Morris Dancing, Countryside Area and Farming Heritage display.

The show boasts 26 arenas and display areas (including seven equine showing rings and a dedicated arena for show jumping), 12 exhibition halls and permanent catering outlets including the Cedric Ford Pavilion Restaurant.

Visitors can save money on admission by purchasing advance tickets (until 5.00pm on Friday 7 May). Tickets are available online at www.newarkshowground.com or by calling 01636 705796 to save £2 on every adult and concessionary ticket – or join as a Member to enjoy the added benefits and facilities such as the Members’ marquee in prime position by the Main Ring.