PREPARATIONS are well under way for Countryside Live, the little sister event of the Great Yorkshire Show.

This will be the event’s 12th year and combines a mix of new elements and popular favourites, creating a fun family day out.

Tickets are already on sale for the event, on Saturday , October 18 and Sunday October 19. The venue is the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate. Last year 12,689 visitors came through the gates to enjoy a snapshot of rural life, and the chance to get “hands-on” with many of the activities.

Bill Cowling, show director, said: “Countryside Live has gone from strength to strength and has carved its own niche in the rural calendar, whilst benefiting from the reputation of the Great Yorkshire Show. Highlighting the vital role our farmers play in providing our food and caring for the countryside lie at the heart of the event, and it is a super day out, particularly for families with young children.”

Most of the activities take place indoors and include competitive classes for cattle, sheep and horses, as well as for poultry, pigeons and honey. Entries are already coming in, including for the Search for a Talented Showjumper contest. Hosted by Olympic stars Graham and Tina Fletcher, riders are put through their paces over the weekend, with the prize of a trip to the Fletchers’ yard in their sights.

There are a wide range of equine classes over the weekend, plus for the first time youngsters can enjoy pony rides and the Northern Show Cross event has been expanded to run over two days rather than one. Held in the Main Ring, this year it also includes an inter-team relay contest as well as the grand final.

Elsewhere there is have-a-go-archery, the chance to try mountain biking on a purpose-built woodland course with demonstrations in the outdoor arena. North Yorkshire’s Ben Potter is once again joining the weekend’s line-up with his amazing birds of prey demonstrations.

Farriers from across the UK will also be showing off their skills. Diggerland is back by popular demand, whilst the Create and Explore area offers a range of hands-on activities including bread and sausage making, willow weaving and felt making.

Another popular aspect of the event is the Fruit, Vegetable and Flower Show, and visitors can also enjoy the tug of war competitions and Richard Savory’s entertaining and informative Sheep Show!

Tickets can be bought in advance and cost £9 for adults and £5 for children with a family ticket, admitting two adults and three children, priced at £24. They will also be available on the gate. Parking is free and extensive.

The deadline for entries for cattle, sheep and equine is Friday, September 5, and for pigeons, poultry and honey, the final deadline is Friday, September 12.

Dogs, other than assistance dogs, are not allowed on the showground. Please be kind to your dog and leave it at home.

For the latest information and to buy tickets please see www.countrysidelive.co.uk or call 01423 541000.