THOUSANDS of people are expected to attend this year's Countryside Live at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate.

An event for all the family, and organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, it takes place on October 22 and 23. New attractions include Greg Wallace, of BBC MasterChef fame, and, for the first time, competitive classes for alpacas.

Charles Mills, show director, said: "It's very much a show for all the family, with plenty to see and do over the two days. The competitive classes, including for cattle, sheep and horses, are an important element, and the Search for a Talented Showjumper competition will again feature.

"Our new exhibition hall will be the ideal setting for our cookery theatre, plus we will have an apple show and dozens of stands. The event is packed with hands-on activities, particularly in the Create and Explore area, which is aimed at youngsters. Countryside Live is a fun way of getting to know more about rural life and have an enjoyable day out."

The finals of the Young Shepherd of the Year competition will be held. Organised by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, the grand final will be on the Sunday. Regional contests have been held in the run up to Countryside Live, and young shepherds will battle it out for the championship titles with classes for eight to 12 years and 13 to 16 years.

An apple show featuring around 100 varieties grown in Yorkshire is expected to draw the crowds, especially as National Apple Day is on October 21.

Elsewhere, Knaresborough Horticultural Society will stage its autumn fruit, flower and veg show, and there's a chance to see pigs, donkey rides, a climbing wall and classes for honey, pigeons and poultry.

There will be cheese and beer tasting, Flyball demonstrations, archery, birds of prey demonstrations and dozens of stands, with everything from food to jewellery and designer clothing.

Tickets are available online. Parking is free. Dogs, other than assistance dogs, are not allowed.

Ticket prices. – Advance: adults £10; children, five to 18, £5; family ticket (two adults and up to three children) £25. Gate prices: adults £12; five to 18, £6; family £30.

See countrysidelive.co.uk.