OFFICIALS are delighted with the high number of sheep entered for one of the North-East's leading agricultural shows after two bleak years in the wake of the foot and mouth disease epidemic.

Some classes will have far better entries than expected at the show this Saturday at Bowes, near Barnard Castle, following the lifting of foot and mouth restrictions on livestock movement.

George Rigg, secretary of the sheep section, said yesterday: "I am delighted with the number of entries, especially in the Swaledale classes, which are the most important for many local farmers."

The main prize at the event, a challenge trophy for Swaledale shearling rams, has attracted its biggest total for a decade.

The only drawback is that mule sheep will be scarce because of a six-day standstill rule imposed by the Department for Food and Rural Affairs.

If they competed they would be barred from a big sale at Middleton-in-Teesdale next week.

Entries in the horse classes will also be at a record 450. They will include a new cart driving test.

Mrs Robina Tranter, in charge of the horse section, said: "The interest this time is phenomenal. If we had any more horses we would have to spread the competitions over two days."

Other features at the event, which starts at 10am, include a dog show, dog agility tests, karts, flower and vegetable classes, and handicrafts.