Pack your wellies, just in case, because next week the world descends on Harrogate. As MATT CLARK reports, it's set to be some event.

FINGERS crossed the weather holds next week, because the Great Yorkshire Show promises to be the best yet, with record sheep entries and 8,000 head of livestock competing for some of the most prestigious championships in the country.
More than 130,000 visitors are expected to attend England's premier agricultural event and there is so much to see, you'll need at least a whole day to take it all in
On show will be Britain’s finest cattle, pigs, prize winning bulls and contests such as sheep-shearing competitions.

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The country's finest livestock will be paraded at the Great Yorkshire Show. Picture: Matt Clark

But it's not just about farming. National and regional designers will be on the catwalk in the Fashion Pavilion, while 2,000 horses will take part in top-class show jumping and there will be equine classes on all three days. As with most years the big draw is a royal visit, with show director Bill Cowling as escort.
"This is our 157th show and I am excited about the visit of the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall on Tuesday," says Mr Cowling. "They have visited in the past and the Prince of Wales is, of course, Patron of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society."

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The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall will again attend the show. Picture: Matt Clark


Another don't miss is demonstrations of every conceivable countryside activity from forestry and agricultural machinery, to birds of prey and traditional blacksmiths.
This year you too can have a go in the blacksmithing beginners taster session. Suitable for anyone, the sessions focus on learning basic techniques that are the foundation of all forge work, from a simple hook to an elaborate sculpture. After a simple demonstration you will get straight into action with a hammer and anvil.

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Sheep judging at last year's show. Picture: Matt Clark


Livestock judging predominantly takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday, while young handlers and the audience participation Housewives' Choice classes will take place on Thursday.
The cattle parade is one of many highlights on Wednesday and Thursday at 2pm. The Shetland Pony Grand National is another and will be held each day in the Main Ring.
Perennial favourite, the Cheese and Dairy Show not only has competitive elements but offers a chance to learn and ask questions. To this end there will be a variety of stage talks with demonstrations and the opportunity to try tasters as well as the ever popular grand cheese auction on Thursday afternoon.
In addition, a vast range of trade stands create a unique shopping opportunity, with a sumptuous selection of food and drink on offer wherever you turn.

 

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Show jumping in the Main Ring is one of the highlights at the Great Yorkshire Show. Picture: Matt Clark

Then there is the Garden Show offering horticultural hints and tips, while some of the region’s top chefs including James Mackenzie, Andrew Pern and Rosemary Shrager will be on hand to share their culinary skills in the Cookery Theatre.
In another first, trade exhibitors will be able to nominate a new product for The White Rose What’s Next Award, which will be given to an innovative piece of equipment in farming. Among the judges will be Alastair Philip, head of agriculture at Askham Bryan College, York.

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Sheep being sheared.........................

 

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.................and many more waiting their turn. Pictures: Matt Clark


For Mr Cowling, this year's show will yield bittersweet memories, because after a decade at the helm he is to step down as show director.
“It has been a huge honour to have done this job and obviously I will miss it," he says. "It has been an exciting 10 years and when you have been in a role for  this long, there is some sadness when it comes to an end.
"But this year’s show will not be a sad event, it will be a happy event and I am hugely looking forward to it."

 

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Huge crowds are expected at this year's Great Yorkshire Show. Picture: Matt Clark

The Great Yorkshire Show will be held at the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate from Tuesday to Thursday. Times: Tuesday and Wednesday, 7.30am –7.30pm; Thursday 7.30am-6.30pm , car parking is free.
Tickets on the gate cost £26 for adults, £24 for concessions, £11 for children (aged from five to 11), and a family ticket costs £64. Children under five go free with a paying adult. To prebook, call 01423 541 222 or visit www.greatyorkshireshow.co.uk