AGRICULTURAL shows have always been important to country people. They offer a chance to meet old friends, show off prize cattle, maybe cheer on the daughter as she competes in the gymkhana.

But in the wake of BSE and foot and mouth, all of us are taking a greater interest in where our food comes from, which is why rural shows have become increasingly important to townies too.

They are also a great way to learn about a slice of life we often only see from the car window. Plenty of them are coming up North Yorkshire, so why not take the family along to one? It’s a great way to keep children entertained.