THIS weekend will see thousands of visitors, both local and from further afield, descend on Cirencester Park for the Cotswold Show and Food Festival.

And recent rain has done nothing to dampen the organisers spirits with them declaring that they will be very much open for business.

Now in its 28th year, it remains one of the Cotswold’s most popular rural events, with its mix of family entertainment, activity arenas, and 300 trade stands and food stalls, showcasing the best of the British countryside, its history, traditions and produce.

In the Bathurst Arena, equine fans will love this year’s fast and furious Shetland Pony Grand National.

A parade of vintage and classic tractors dating back to the 1920s looks set to delight all ages and, from four wheels to two, the army’s Royal Signals White Helmets motorcycle display team will provide a breathtaking show of motorcycle skills, acrobatics and stunt riding.

The Apsley Arena is all about animals, providing the central stage for rare breeds, pig handling, dog agility and sheep shearing displays and, as no country fair is complete without a dog show, this year’s K9 Freestyle Dancing Dog Display promises foot-tapping entertainment from top trainer Richard Curtis and his pack of performing partners.

The Show’s Cookery Theatre will once again showcase the very best of the Cotswolds culinary talent with a rolling programme of cookery demonstrations.

Show visitors can expect to learn all about traditional rural skills through demonstrations and hands-on experience.

The shopping areas will also provide a pleasant diversion for those looking to pick up something a little different with everything from pet supplies, fashion, jewellery, art, indoor and outdoor furniture, and even cars on offer.

And if music is your bag, new for this year, the Show welcomes StageSmart, Cirencester’s talented performing arts academy, who will be putting on a mini concert in the park, with local music groups, choirs and a few West End performers too.

Cirencester Male Voice Choir will also be in fine voice on Sunday afternoon.

Go to cotswoldshow.co.uk for more details and tickets.