ONE of the summer’s biggest events will return to the Red Rose County with a bang this year - with organisers hoping the three-day show will be better than ever before.

Thousands are expected to flock through the gates at Salesbury Hall, near Ribchester, as the three-day Royal Lancashire Show gets underway on Friday.

As with all agricultural events last year, the show was unable to go ahead due to restrictions in place because of the coronavirus pandemic.

But the time away has only made organisers even more determined to make this year’s event bigger and better than ever - with record numbers of livestock, exhibitors and visitor set to attend.

Colin Mustoe, chairman of the event, said: “It should really be a good day out - out in the fresh air is about the safest place you can be at the moment.”

Mr Mustoe continued: “This will be the largest show for many years. It is a true agricultural show, there will be more than 800 sheep, over 300 cattle, probably 500 horses, pigs, alpacas goats - you name it, there really is a very substantial agricultural and equestrian side.

“We then have several other attractions going on - top level showjumping, jousting, knights, the Shetland Pony Grand Prix - there are all sorts of activities to attract all ages.”

Other attractions for the younger ones include a children’s village and funfair, while impressive displays from nine different regiments of the army will also take place over the weekend.

Mr Mustoe said ticket sales have been the best they've been in recent years, with numbers way up on this time two years ago/

Anyone wishing to buy a ticket who has not yet done so can either purchase one online or can pay on the gate at the day.

When it comes to the coronavirus, Mr Mustoe said visitors will be encouraged to wear masks whilst entering the limited number of indoor spaces, though it will not be mandatory.

Hand sanitising stations will also be placed across the show ground.

The show is one of the country's oldest agricultural shows.

First admission will be at 9.30am and the show will close at 5.30pm daily.