FINAL preparations are being made for one of the biggest farming events of the year - and as usual there will be a lot more than just livestock on display.

Last year, more than 125,000 visitors attended the Great Yorkshire Show, at Harrogate - the highest figure for almost 20 years.

Next month's event will be the 145th show and entries in the livestock section are virtually back to normal following the foot-and-mouth crisis.

Honorary show director Christopher Hall said: "This is always an exciting and hectic time and we are delighted that the support from our exhibitors is as strong as ever.

"Trade stand space has sold out and livestock entries are high. Cattle figures are very good. We will have almost 1,500 sheep and the numbers of pigs and goats are also looking good.

"Despite the trauma the farming community has suffered, and continues to face, it is very clear that the show is seen as an important shop window for the industry."

The main ring programme will be a mix of competitive classes and displays including the Dancing Diggers the Royal Artillery parachute team, the King's Division Waterloo Band, sheep dog trials and showjumping.

The show runs from July 18 to 20 and opens at 8am each day.

Tickets at the gate cost £13 for adults, £10 concessions and £7 for children with discounts for tickets booked in advance.

There is ample free car parking space.

For further information log on to www.greatyorkshireshow.org or contact the show office on (01423) 541000. For tickets, contact (01423) 541222.