A NEW cup in honour of Joe Maiden will be awarded at this weekend's Weeton Show.

The 2016 event takes place in the village on Sunday and is expected to attract some 3,000 visitors.

Attractions will range from show jumping and carriage driving to ferret racing, Punch and Judy shows and a birds of prey display.

The competitive classes will include horses, sheep, dogs, poultry, arts and crafts, baking and produce.

They will also feature a new trophy in memory of gardening expert and radio presenter Joe Maiden, who died last September.

Weeton Show's vice-president, Paula Ware, said: "We've found these traditional class exhibits are a great way to bring the community together.

"That spirit was championed by no one more than the wonderful Joe Maiden, who will be known to many across Yorkshire from his popular Radio Leeds gardening programme.

"Joe lived in the village and was a great supporter of the show for many years. He sadly passed away last year but we are delighted to be awarding a new championship cup in his honour, for the best hanging basket.

"We hope to have a bumper entry of colourful baskets for Joe’s friend, Gordon Kirby, to judge."

Baking is also set to feature strongly this year.

The show's general secretary, Candy Waller, said: "Thanks to programmes like the Great British Bake Off, we have seen a real revival in the competitive classes.

"There was a time when we were just getting one or two entries to some of the displays and had to think seriously about continuing, but things have changed.

"We are getting lots of interest from younger people, which is wonderful."

Horse and pony enthusiasts should also find plenty to enjoy.

Horse secretary, Shelley Williams, said: "As well as all of the usual in-hand, ridden, driving, heavy horse and show-jumping classes, we are excited to have a new class this year for rescued and re-homed horses.

"This gives owners who look after rescued horses and ponies the opportunity to show off their beloved equines. We are running the classes in conjunction with Hope Pastures, a charity we are delighted to support in their valuable work.

"The three highest placed equines in the class will qualify for the Championship Final in October."

Other attractions will include a circus skills workshop, fancy dress parade, a 'have a go' dry stone walling display, live brass band music and the Rougemont Chase run.

There will be a variety of trade and craft stalls and, making their show debut, a display from the Leeds and District Traction Club.

Gates open at 8am with events running to 5pm. Admission costs £8 for adults, £4 for children and concessions.