It’s been confirmed that the 14th Countryside Live agricultural event will take place at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate on 22nd and 23rd October.
Tickets will go on sale on 1st August for the weekend event, which is run by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.
Described as a ‘rural extravaganza’, this year’s event will encompass everything from animal competitions and show jumping to cookery displays and creative workshops for children.
Alpacas and apples
New this year will be alpacas which will feature in competitive classes. There will also be opportunities to meet these animals and buy from a selection of luxury alpaca products.
An apple show has also been confirmed, following the popularity of last year’s first apple displays. National Apple Day falls on Friday 21st October this year, and Countryside Live will mark the occasion by showcasing around 100 different apple varieties – all grown in Yorkshire.
A number of tasting sessions will accompany the displays, as will sessions on fruit tree care.
Fruit, vegetables, cheese and beer
Elsewhere at the event, the Knaresborough Horticultural Society will stage its autumn fruit, flower and vegetable show.
There will be the chance to see pigs, take a donkey ride, climb a climbing wall and take classes in making honey and looking after pigeons and poultry.
In addition, groups can enjoy cheese and beer tasting, archery, and birds of prey demonstrations. A number of stands will be selling everything from food and jewellery to designer clothing.
Young Shepherd of the Year
The final of the 2016 Young Shepherd of the Year competition, organised by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, will take place at Countryside Live on the Sunday.
This final will be the culmination of a number of regional contests that have been held in the run up to Countryside Live, and young shepherds will be battling it out for championship titles with classes for eight to 12 years old and 13 to 16 years old.
Group booking
Group discounts are available for parties of 15 or more. GTOs should contact Sally Wall to make a booking by calling 01423-546218.
For further information visit www.countrysidelive.co.uk.
