A COUNTRY show is hoping to put the nightmares of the last couple of years firmly in the past and begin a new era on a new site.

The Wensleydale Show was cancelled at the height of the foot-and-mouth crisis in 2001 and, with restrictions still in place last year, organisers could only manage a limited comeback at Leyburn auction mart.

There was a further question mark over the show's future when it was confirmed the show field on Moor Road on the edge of the town was destined to become a quarry. The new show field is next to the A6108 between Leyburn and Bellerby, with ample space for parking.

The show is on Saturday and the gates open at 10am.

Show president Chris Iveson said: "The new show field is even better than the old one. It's only a short distance from the town centre and we can have unlimited parking."

Arena attractions include a visit by the Lampkin family, famous for their exploits in the world of motorcycle trials, a display by Gurkha soldiers and a parade of vintage cars and farm machinery, including horse-drawn equipment.

Sheep dog trails and terrier racing make a welcome return. Show secretary Helen Verity said records had already been broken in some of the competitive classes for livestock and produce.

Admission is £5 for adults, with concessions of £2.50 available for children under 16.