WITH attractions from horse competitions to dog displays on show, thousands of visitors are expected to flock to a Hampshire market town tomorrow for a day of agricultural fun.

Billed as the biggest one-day show in the South, The Romsey Show will be holding its 175th agricultural extravaganza tomorrow on the historic Broadlands Estate.

Visitors will be able to watch more than 700 horses and livestock competing in an array of different competitions, as well as experiencing many new attractions. These include a dog and duck display, Falcon Village, the humorous Mole Show and Sheep Show. Heavy horses will also be on parade and equine enthusiasts can see the country’s best farriers at work.

But don’t fret if you get peckish during the day, food is top of the agenda this year with demonstrations from the county’s top chefs, a Kids’ Kitchen, and much more.

Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of new quality food outlets from Mexican and Thai to gluten-free or a burger.

And for those with cash to spend, hundreds of retail stands are selling everything from crafts to clothing and gifts to gardening gear.

Show secretary Alexa Hobday said: “We’re one of the oldest shows in the country and our visitors come back year after year to support us.

“Although we’ve been going since 1842 each year we make sure there are new and exciting attractions!

“The marquees are up, our competitors are preparing their animals and horticultural entries, and our traders are getting their stands ready.

“The site is looking fantastic and we’re looking forward to welcoming all our visitors this Saturday.”

TV archaeologist Dr Phil Harding is this year’s president and visitors can step into the past with activities from Wessex Archaeology, challenging budding archaeologists to guess the age of pottery finds and identify artefacts.

Tickets have been frozen at last year’s prices with 11s and under free, and are selling fast. They are available at www.romseyshow.co.uk or on the gates. The Show is open from 8am to 6pm.

  • See this week's Romsey Advertiser for a special eight-page Romsey Show supplement.