THE sun is shining, The series of crises which have battered farmers for more than a decade are in the past.

Last year the Great Yorkshire Show proved to be the most popular in a generation: everything is set for this year's show to be even bigger and better.

Life has changed so much in York in the last half century that its traditional role as the market for farmers across the Ridings is often overlooked.

But the next three days are a welcome reminder of North Yorkshire's rural roots - and a chance for the agriculture industry to celebrate its continued importance.

Updated: 11:21 Tuesday, July 13, 2004