CRAVEN'S final shows of the season - Bentham and Horton-in-Ribblesdale - will take place on Saturday.

The Bentham event will include several new classes, suggested by this year's president Frank Brennand.

He farms at Chapel-le-Dale and has Swaledale, Dalesbred and Herdwick sheep.

And while the show has sections for Swaledale and Dalesbred sheep, there has previously been no provision for Herdwicks, the native breed of the Lake District.

"We are introducing some Herdwick classes for the first time and have had quite a few entries," said show secretary Val Lawson.

Another new feature, reflecting Mr Brennand's involvement with Burton-in-Lonsdale YFC, is a judging section for young farmers where participants have to judge four different things ranging from livestock to cakes.

There will also be a open judging class for non-members of young farmers.

Held at the auction mart, the show has also attracted around 1,100 handicraft entries, along with a lot of flowers and vegetables.

Also taking place on Saturday, Horton show will be held in the village school and adjoining grounds and field.

Secretary Paula Swainson said: "Preparations for the show are coming together well. The indoor entries, especially the confectionery section, have seen an increase this year. Sheep entries remain constant. Traditional breeds, such as Swaledale and Dalesbred, have had a slight increase in entry numbers."

This year's president is Mike Pearson, of Foredale, and he and his family have a long association with the show. His daughter, Debbie, will be showing her Swaledales.

The popular vintage tractor and car classes are open to anyone and entries will be taken on the day. Vehicles should be on the showfield by 10am, with judging starting at 11am.

The school and marquee will open for viewing of indoor exhibits from lunchtime.

Dogs and pets will be judged at 2pm and the presentation of the trophies will be held at about 3pm.

Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of Horton School and will be available from mid morning onwards. Proceeds will be split between the school and show.