LEADING names in the county's food and drink industry are heading south to take part in a national showcase.

North Yorkshire is making a return visit to the Royal Show next month following the success of last year's exhibit.

The county's feature will be based around the recreation of a traditional village green and exhibitors include Wensleydale Dairy from Hawes, Thirsk's Shepherd's Purse Cheeses and Whitby bakers Elizabeth Botham and Sons.

Northallerton grocers Lewis and Cooper will display a selection of their products as well as their food hampers while Masham's Black Sheep Brewery will offer a range of beers.

Steve Leatherbarrow, co-ordinating the county's exhibit, said: "We really do have a lot to offer in North Yorkshire and the Royal Show will provide our local food and drink industry the opportunity to showcase their products to a national and international audience."

The county's exhibit, which runs from July 3-6 at the National Agriculture Centre in Warwickshire, is part-funded by the EU and the county council and supported by North Yorkshire TEC and Business Link North Yorkshire.