THERE should be more entries than ever for Richmond's annual Sheep on Show exhibition now that the town's Mayor has given the flock "extended grazing rights".

The event has run exclusively in Richmond since Councillor Stuart Parsons introduced it two years ago.

However, this year it has been decided schools and individuals from across the Richmondshire district should be allowed to join in.

The competition is an integral part of the Richmond Festival, which begins on Friday, next week.

Groups who want to enter are challenged to decorate a wooden template of a sheep along a particular theme for an exhibition in shop windows around Richmond town centre.

Shoppers and visitors will be encouraged to spot as many as they can and vote for their favourite before all the sheep are auctioned for charity on the festival's final day. The theme this year is Sheep of the World, with money raised from the auction destined for better music, drama and sports facilities for Richmond primary school pupils.

"I am delighted so many people want to be involved in the festival through the Sheep on Show exhibition and competition,'' said Coun Parsons.

"Opening up the festival to the whole district can only increase its success in bringing the community together for a weekend of drama, music and family fun."

Other events on the programme this year include the annual Green Howards Yorkshire Sports Day, open-air performances of A Midsummer's Night Dream by students from Richmond School, in the Friary Gardens, and a family It's a Knockout tournament hosted by Richmond Scouts.

Teams wishing to take part in the It's a Knockout competition are asked to contact Mike McGarry on (01748) 825295.