YOUNG shearers are invited to test their skills in the Great Yorkshire Blade Shearing Competition in Harrogate.

The competition is part of the Great Yorkshire Show, in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, which runs from July 14-16.

The show has qualifying competitions for the British Isles Shearer of the Year, English Shearer of the Year 2009 and Worshipful Company of Woolmen Junior circuits.

On Tuesday, 14, young shearers with Blue Seal qualification can take part in the Great Yorkshire Junior Championship.

The winner gets prize money and the Perpetual Championship Trophy and tankard.

The Great Yorkshire Blade Shearing Competition takes place on Wednesday, 15, at 10am with first prize money and a tankard.

Bob Richardson, chief shearing steward at the show, said: "More and more young people are taking training courses in shearing.

"The shearing competitions at the show are open to people of all ages, entrants just need a Blue Seal qualification to make sure they are up to standard.

"We get competitors aged from 16 right up to 70, especially in the hand shearing competitions, and the Great Yorkshire Open Championship attracts the best shearers from all over the world, including from New Zealand and Australia."

Entries have to be in by Thursday, June 25, with prices ranging from £9 up to £17. Details and entries to Amanda West on 01423-546231.