VOLUNTEERS are needed to help stage one of the region's largest agricultural shows.

The Durham County Show will mark the opening of the multi-million pound Herrington Country Park, in Sunderland, on the weekend of July 13 and 14.

Since 1842, the show has been promoting the agricultural prowess and produce of the region, all with the help of volunteers from the farming community.

Secretary Christine Duke said: "After the disruption of the foot-and-mouth outbreak, this is a chance for the countryside to declare it is open for business again.

"The Durham County Show is a prestigious event and we help keep it so community-based by involving as many people as possible in organising the event.

"Everyone can get involved, from helping out with the various animal displays to directing the car parking.

"Volunteers will not only have a great day out, but can also enjoy being involved with such a well-known North-East occasion."

Sunderland City Council's landscape and reclamation manager, Keith Hamilton, said: "This is a real community event, staged in what will be a major community attraction.

"Herrington County Park will become the permanent home for the show, linking our past with our future.

"A lot of effort has been put into the park, transforming the 150-hectare former colliery site into a place the family can go to enjoy the various outdoor amenities that are provided.

"There are already lakes, outdoor sculptures, paths and trees, and there will even be an amphitheatre where we can stage outdoor entertainment."

For further information, contact 0191-534 6482.