A NORTH Yorkshire agricultural show has unveiled a new main sponsor.

The Co-operative has announced plans to become a sponsor of the Leyburn-based Wensleydale Agricultural Show.

Having being going since 1892 with two temporary interruptions for world wars, it is one of the largest one-day events in the Dales attracting several thousand visitors.

Although a traditional agricultural show, it always features up-to-date and top-class family entertainment.

This year, top billing goes to: The West Lancs Dog Display Team and Black Watch London Pipes & Drums.

Show chairman Mike Warden said: “I am delighted that the Co-operative have become our main sponsor; it is important as it compounds the relationship we both have with the local farming community.”

A supporter and regular entrant at the show since boyhood, local branch manager of the Co-operative Jonathan Barker was keen to cement the deal.

He said: “Our ethics fit with those of the Wensleydale Show; we support local farmers and businesses.

“When I am at the show, many of our suppliers are there too such as Wensleydale Creamery and Brymor Ice Cream. “

The Co-operative also intends to sponsor a trophy and there is already a class in the schedule for a cake made from the Co-operative’s cook book.

The deal however will not curry any flavour with the steely-hearted judges for Mr Barker, who is rather coy about his own entries for this year’s show.

The show takes place on Saturday, August 25, from 9.30am to 5.30pm, and the site is well signposted and has free parking.

A free shuttle bus travels to and from Leyburn and the showground (the postcode is DL8 5JS).