WHARFEDALE will kick-off the agricultural season this weekend with the 207th Otley Show.

The event takes place at the Bridge End showground on Saturday and will feature an array of countryside attractions for all ages.

A sheepdog and duck display and a sheep race – the Lamb National – are among the new activities that will complement returning favourites, like the farrier's competition and dog and ferret shows.

As always, the backbone of the 2016 show will be the traditional classes – including horses, livestock, poultry, produce and ponies – that have formed the event's core since it was founded in 1796.

Show secretary, Janet Raw, is looking forward to another busy day.

She said: "We move into this year’s show with a new president at the helm.

"We were delighted when Nicholas Houseman, a renowned farmer from Lindley, accepted the position, as his family has been involved with the show for a number of generations.

"We also welcome this year Otley Rugby Club, who will be demonstrating Tag Rugby in our newly-created second ring before we hold our annual tug-o'-war competition in the afternoon.

"We hope both these attractions will bring in the youth.

"The main attraction this year is Bob Hogg’s Sheepdog and Duck Display, along with his Lamb National. Bob travels the country with his working sheepdogs, giving educational but entertaining displays.

"The Lamb National Sheep Race comprises of five to six Herdwick sheep, renowned for their hardiness and agility. Dressed in brightly-coloured coats and with 'jockeys' on board, they race down the track and over the jumps!"

Among the local families entering animals this year will be the Asquiths, from Knotford Nook in Otley, who will have three generations involved.

An exhibitor since childhood, Julie Asquith has recently become Mrs Raw's office assistant while her husband, David, has looked after the showground for many years by cutting the grass and rolling the fields.

David will be on standby with his tractor on the day, assisted by his son, James.

Julie and David's daughter, Samantha, meanwhile, who has exhibited horses since she was six, will be exhibiting her Beltex sheep, which she has entered at shows across Yorkshire.

David and Julie's five-year-old grandson, Alfie, will be there, too, following his avid interest in farming.

Janet said: "Three generations of the Asquith family are now involved in the show and are very proud to be part of it!

"Entries in all sections have flooded in and the showground is packed to capacity, with everything from hamsters to heavy horses. And this year also sees the return of the rabbit show."

Other attractions on Saturday will include Ben Potter's Birds of Prey display, The Sheep Show, terrier racing, tractor and US Jeep displays and music by Otley Brass Band.

Visitors will also be able to see spinners and weavers at work, visit the music and craft marquees, watch a pole lathe demonstration and try their hand at sailing, courtesy of Otley Sailing Club.

Giant inflatables, Punch 'n' Judy shows and donkey rides, meanwhile, are among the activities that have been lined up for children.

Organised by Wharfedale Agricultural Society, Otley Show is the first big regional agricultural event of the show season.

Tickets can be bought on the day or in advance – at a reduced price – from many local shops.

Visit otleyshow.org.uk or call 01943 462541 for more details.