MORE than 10,000 people are expected to descend on the 148th Great Harwood Agricultural Show.

And to boost attendances for the first time the show will include an egg catching contest!

Organisers promise ferret racing, jousting knights, egg-catching competitions, a tug-of-war, birds of prey shows, plus sheepdog trials, and sheep, cattle, goats, rabbits, poultry and eggs shows.

A new 100 stall market will also support the event, based at the New Showground, in Harwood Lane.

It will feature traders selling outdoor clothing, crafts, equestrian and pet supplies, tools, charity stalls, fancy goods, a public bar, a shot bar, home produced and exotic meats and meals, chutneys and cheeses, Lancashire foods, hog roasts, and specialist stands with foods from all over the world.

Committee member Carol Armer said: “We are hoping this year’s Great Harwood Show is the biggest and best yet.

“We have more land than ever before and we have a constant run of displays in the main arena.

“We are expecting up to 10,000 people to attend and if we have more that will be an added bonus.

“There are 30 people who work tirelessly all year round making the show what it is. “We will be working on the 149th show as soon as we get this year’s over with.”

The popular event, described by organisers as a ‘great family day out’, costs £7.50 for adults, £5 for pensioners and £3 for children on the gate. Advance tickets can be purchased for £6.50.

Proceeds from the May 25 event will be split between Pendleside Hospice and Burnley Cat Rescue.

The show was formed in 1857 and was originally held on Whit Tuesday, it is now held on Spring Bank Holiday Monday.

Great Harwood councillor Noordad Aziz said the annual event puts the town firmly on the map. He said: “The Great Harwood Show is an event as a child I used to look forward to.

“Over the years it has grown and grown.

“It is a great family event that is a credit to the town.

“It continues to attract people from all over the county and puts Great Harwood on the map.”

The Great Harwood Agricultural Society was formed in 1857. Mr Lawrence Catterall and Mr Lawrence Lee of Martholme were the organisers of the first show and entries for that year included horned cattle, horses, bulls, sheep and pigs. Harwood Brass Band supplied the music and at 5 o’clock a dinner was held at the Cross Axes.