PLANS are well under way for the 2002 Great Yorkshire Show.

Mr Christopher Hall, show director, said he was determined next year's event would focus on enjoyment and the revitalisation of the farming industry.

"We are very hopeful that the livestock classes will run as usual," he said. "The cancellation of so many events has made us all realise the value of getting out and meeting people, whether it's friends, family, customers or suppliers.

"The Great Yorkshire Show has always been a social occasion as well as an important date on the farming calendar so the 2002 event will be particularly special."

For the first time since 1962, a cheese show will be included with 21 classes for English varieties. It is being organised in conjunction with the Wensleydale Creameries of Hawes.

There will also be the popular Shetland pony grand national, the White Helmets motorcycle display team, a sheepdog display, plus classes for four in hand coaches, the Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment and top class show jumping.

The 144th show takes place from July 9-11 at the showground in Harrogate.

Ticket prices have been pegged at the 2000 levels. An adult ticket costs £12, over 60s, £9, and children (5-15) £6. There are discounts available for tickets booked in advance.

Farewell note for railway pioneer

THE father of the railways, George Stephenson, will disappear from the £5 note from next summer.

The famous Darlington railway pioneer with images of Stephenson's Rocket, Timothy Hackworth's engine winding house and Locomotion No 1 crossing Skerne Bridge, have featured on the back of the fiver since 1990.

But next year, the Bank of England will drop the railway theme in favour of 19th century prison reformer Elizabeth Fry.

Darlington historian Mr George Flynn said: "It's a shame because every time somebody pulls a £5 note out they see Darlington."

However, Darlington will still retain a link to the new design - because Elizabeth Fry was a Quaker.

Hunt is on again

HUNTING resumed on Monday in areas which have been totally foot-and-mouth free, but a MORI poll claims most people in the Yorkshire and Humber region think it is cruel and unnecessary.

Phyllis Campbell-McCrae, UK director of the International Fund for Animal Welfare, said it believed hunting should not have been given the go-ahead and it fully expected the government to honour its commitment to introduce a hunting bill in this session of parliament