MAN’S best friends are the undoubted stars of a dales agricultural show in 2018, the Chinese year of the dog.

Having being on the go since 1892 the Wensleydale Show has seen it all.

Although a traditional agricultural show it always features up-to-date family entertainment. Organisers are constantly on the lookout for something new or the chance to reintroduce classes that lost popularity. Poultry returned to the fray in 2010 after an absence of 50 years and reflects a growing interest in keeping chickens with nearly 300 entries. .

New this year for the 104th show, Andy Brook of Ingdalehowl Working Labradors in conjunction with the Three Ridings Labrador Club will run a gundog arena with a display and scurry competition featuring a dummy pick-up and up-and-over hay bales, all timed with prizes.

Vice chairman Kenton Foster said: “We are delighted to feature gundogs for the first time at this year’s show.

“As a traditional agricultural show we are always looking to add new classes which highlight other parts of rural life and this is a fun and informative way of demonstrating the importance of gundogs."

Four legged friends also feature with a display by hounds and beagles, sheepdog trials, terrier racing, a fun dog show and a contest for the dog the Show President would most like to take home.

Main ring entertainment is provided by the West Lancs Dog Display team and the Back Watch London Pipes and Drums Display.

Every year more than 3000 entries for all classes are received, competing for over 100 glittering trophies.

Horticultural and homecraft sections all produce a display of entries which once judged are open to public scrutiny. Around the ground vintage vehicles can be all be inspected close-up, whilst walking sticks provide an additional interest to fans of countryside activities. There are refreshments, children’s entertainment and trade stands to keep visitors interested.

The show takes place on Saturday August 25, 9.30-5.30pm; it is well signposted with free parking and a free shuttle bus for those travelling from Leyburn or by rail. The postcode is DL8 5 JS.