PREPARATIONS for the 158th annual Great Yorkshire Show (GYS) are well underway, with a number of events now in the show diary.

The show will run from Tuesday, July 12 to Thursday, July 14. About 130,000 visitors from the UK and abroad are expected over the three days.

The show provides a look at rural life, as well as an insight into the very latest in the agricultural industry.

Events already in the diary include more than 8,000 animals competing in the classes, from "rams to rabbits to racehorses".

There will be about 1,200 stands selling everything from combine harvesters to country clothing. Regional food will be showcased and there will be a new food theatre in the new exhibition hall.

Demonstrations will include sheep shearing, dry stone walling and cheese-making, and for those interested in horses there will be top-class showjumping with international riders.

The organisers also say that countryside couture will be on display in a fashion show on the catwalk.

Charles Mills, director of the show, said: "The Great Yorkshire Show is the flagship event for the industry and combines a social day out with the chance for farmers to do business and see the latest machinery and equipment, superb livestock and fascinating demonstrations."

The Great Yorkshire Show is organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and takes place at the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate. Tickets go on sale on Tuesday, March 1.

The Yorkshire Agricultural Society has organised a number of other events at the showground in 2016. These include Springtime Live, which takes place on Sunday, April 3, and features hands-on activities particularly aimed at young families. It is also organising Countryside Live which will take place on Saturday, October 22 and Sunday, October 23. This is described as the Great Yorkshire Show’s "little sister" event.