Tens of thousands expected at this year's Great Yorkshire Show

Samuel and Benjamin Brooke - two young farmers enjoying this year's show Credit: ITV Yorkshire

Tens of thousands of people are expected to flock to Harrogate for the opening day of the Great Yorkshire Show.

Samuel and Benjamin Brooke - two young farmers enjoying this year's show Credit: ITV Yorkshire

It is one of the biggest agricultural events in the UK and takes place over three days, showcasing the best of British farming, food and the countryside.

Showing his best side in the judging ring Credit: ITV Yorkshire

More than 8,500 animals are expected to be at the show ground with the country's finest livestock competing in the judging ring.

The show finishes on Friday July 12, with one of the most prestigious showjumping classes in the country, the Cock O’the North.

One of the most prestigious showjumping events will take place on Friday July 12 Credit: ITV Yorkshire

But one animal you will not see at this year's show is the pig after organisers took the decision to cancel all classes due to health concerns at an animal at another event.

Soprano Lizzie Jones will perform in the Main Ring, and sculptor Emma Stothard will be creating a large-scale installation hoping to wow showgoers.

Lizzie Jones will be the first singer to ever perform in the main ring Credit: ITV Yorkshire

Calendar has its own marquee this year with a pop up studio so visitors can have a go at reading the news.

Other highlights this year include:

  • The Kuoni Catwalk - which for the first time will be presented by Calendar's own Christine Talbot

  • Motorbike stunt riding team The Bolddog Lings

  • Rosemary Shrager turning up the heat in the cookery theatres

  • RAF Falcons Parachute Display

  • Yorkshire Water Bar

  • Art Show

The Duke of York will also pay a visit to the show on Thursday July 11 where he will meet officials, competitors and exhibitors. His Royal Highness has not been to the show since 2002.

The Duke of York will visit the showground in Harrogate on Thursday Credit: Press Association