A CHARITY show is trying to fight back after two disastrous years.

The committee behind the Northallerton horticultural show is hoping people will turn out in force this year.

The show is being held on Sunday, September 15, at Thornton-le-Beans village hall, with proceeds going to the local multiple sclerosis therapy centre.

Black Swan MS group fund-raising spokesman Ray Christopher said: "We are trying to re-launch after being dogged by disaster for the past two years which have ruined the shows."

Last year the event was scheduled four days after the September 11 attacks, and the year before, the national petrol protest kept people away.

"When fuel was in short supply, we had entrants, but not enough, and down on the previous year," said Mr Christopher.

"Last year, it was just four days after Sept 11 and people were just not going out and about, so we were hit again.

"For the last two years we have taken about £400, but before that it was double that."

This year, the committee is continuing with the same format, but introducing the two new sections, photography and handicrafts, in a bid to broaden the show's appeal.

The new venue comes after spells at original base Thornton-le-Moor and at South Otterington, where there were problems with parking.

"The hall we are using this year has parking facilities and approach roads so it should be a lot better," said Mr Christopher.

"We want people to come along on the day. All the produce is donated and we auction it off. The auction is the highlight and stayed popular even during the bad years."

For more details about the show, call Mr Christopher on (01609) 776155.