Cotswold show set to be bigger than ever (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Cotswold show set to be bigger than ever

THIS year's Cotswold Show is set to bring all the attractions of the countryside to a bigger audience than ever before.

With attractions ranging from a youth motorcycle display team to a traditional rare breeds parade, the show, which takes place on July 8 and 9, is hoping to beat last year's record attendance.

Show chairman Lord Apsley, speaking at the launch of this year's event, said the show still aimed to show visitors the very best of rural life - just as the first show did 17 years ago.

He said: "The Cotswold Show is countryside orientated in every way to attract families and provide them with an enjoyable day out in a countryside setting and give them a chance to find out a little bit more about the land around them."

Also at the launch at Cirencester Polo Club were children from Cirencester Junior School who were entertained by shepherdess Elaine Hill and her collie sheepdogs Peg and Mouse.

The children watched intently as Elaine herded four sheep through makeshift pens.

There were screams of delight and excitement when, at one stage, the sheep broke away from the dog and headed straight for the children. But they were soon back under control and in their pens.

Attractions at this year's Cotswold Show include Elaine with her collies, the world-famous Imps children's motorcycle display team and the Utterly Butterly wingwalkers.

Other attractions include demonstrations of traditional rural crafts, the shopping area, laser clay pigeon shooting and the chance to take a Suzuki Grand Vitara through the mud on the off-road course.

The Cotswold Show - sponsored by Waitrose and Pebley Beach Suzuki - takes place from 9am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday, July 8 and 9.

Tickets are £9 for adults and £2 for children, but early birds can buy tickets now for £7 (adult), £2 (child three - 14 years) or £17 for a family of two adults and two children. Children under three and dogs go free.

Call 08700 115007 or log on to the website at www.cotswoldshow.co.uk