A LONG-RUNNING show faces an uncertain future as a planning application for a permanent site for the event is expected to be refused.

Councillors, who will meet next week, have been advised to reject plans to change the use of 11 hectares of agricultural land near Thirsk into a recreational sports and showground.

The Highways Agency has expressed concern over the proposals for the land, in Knayton, stating the change of use may have a significant effect on traffic congestion.

The recommendation for refusal by members of North Yorkshire County Council has been greeted with dismay by members of Borrowby Agricultural and Horticultural Committee, which submitted the application to secure a site for their annual show.

Society secretary Janet Peckitt said: "The annual show has been running for more than 50 years and we have to rely on the generosity of farmers for a field to hold it in. Therefore, we tend to move around quite a bit.

"The foot-and-mouth outbreak brought it home that people do not really want us on the farmland. Last year, we could not even hold any livestock classes because of the tight restrictions in place."

The show, which Mrs Peckitt said does not attract great numbers of people from outside the village, is held for one day each year, in July. It is hoped the ground will be used for the remaining time for other sports and activities.

She said: "The field would be permanent grass and put to full use. The project is envisaged to also become the home of the local football team and cricket club, and perhaps be used by the scouts."

The Highways Agency has urged the county council not to grant permission for the application, with fears that the use of the ground may affect traffic at the Borrowby and Knayton junctions of the A19.

The report to the council said that while the proposal would not harm the appearance of the countryside or the amenity of locals, it could generate levels of traffic that are dangerous to road safety.

Sport England has also raised objections, questioning the amount that the ground will be used and the maintenance costs