A BUMPER turnout is expected at North Yorkshire County Show, following record numbers of entries in numerous classes and forecasted fair weather.

Organisers of the event were stunned last year when 12,000 visitors flocked to the showground off the A167, near South Otterington, and had to contend with lengthy traffic queues.

In an attempt to avert a repeat of the congestion on Sunday, particularly at the entrance to the site, the show has spent £3,000 on signs and staff to control the traffic and will lay on free bus services to and from Northallerton, Thirsk and surrounding villages.

Show secretary Alan Andrew said: “We have learnt a lot from last year, identified the pinch points and are aiming to keep the traffic moving in what we hope will be a much more professional operation.”

He said the showground was in the best condition he had seen it, which would help keep it firm underfoot for visitors to walk between the 18 marquees and up to 600 horses and 500 sheep competing.

Mr Andrew said a 160ft by 40ft marquee had been erected for an increased number of chickens, while cavy enthusiasts would be showing hundreds of the guinea pig-like creatures at the show for the first time.

The attractions in the main ring will include the Hurworth Hounds, a motorcycle stunt rider and a dancing digger ahead of the grand parade at 3pm.

The 60-member Northallerton Area Schools Concert Band will also perform three sets of live music.

For details or to download a show schedule, visit northyorkshireshow.co.uk