POLE-climbing and bench-building will both feature in the forestry area at this year's Great Yorkshire Show on Tuesday, July 13 - and this time visitors will also be able to have a go.

In addition to the Great British Pole Climbing Championships where the experts compete, those from the industry can have a go, racing against the clock to see who can get to the top of the 90ft poles the fastest. Sponsored by McCormicks Solicitors, the championships are expected to attract plenty of contestants.

The show runs from Tuesday to Thursday, July 13-15, at the Great Yorkshire Showground on the edge of Harrogate.

"People love watching the experts shooting up and down the poles against the clock, so this year we thought it would be great to broaden the entry level," said Chris Marsh of the Forestry Contracting Association, organiser of the contest.

Another event will be a bench-building competition, where teams of two will have to put together a bench from the pieces of wood they are given. Those who are successful will receive a prize.

Those who love to see horses at work can watch the horse-logging, where animals will demonstrate the traditional method of moving timber.

Tickets for the show can be bought on the gate and cost £15 for adults with £11 for concessions; a family ticket (two adults and three children) costs £40. There are savings on tickets bought in advance.

The ticket hotline is 01423 541222; the general show number is 01423 541000.