BUSINESSES across North Yorkshire have the chance to grab the attention of an international audience by joining the county council at the Royal Show.

About 200,000 visitors are expected to flock to the show, which takes place from July 3 to July 6 in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire.

The North Yorkshire feature, in the form of a traditional village green, will be part of the show's Country Living area and is aimed at giving visitors a real taste of all the county has to offer.

Many North Yorkshire food and drink, crafts and manufacturing firms have already signed up but space is still available in the North Yorkshire marquee and organisers at County Hall are urging other firms wanting to get involved to move fast.

Steve Leatherbarrow, Royal Show co-ordinator at the county council, said: "The 1999 exhibit was a success, both in terms of business done by those attending and the publicity gained by the county.

"This is a marvellous business opportunity for companies throughout the county. You can't afford to miss it."

Those keen to sign up for the show should call Steve Leatherbarrow on 01609 532223.

The project is part-funded by the European Community European Regional Development Fund and backed by North Yorkshire TEC and Business Link North Yorkshire.