A countryside spectacle with a heritage stretching back more than 160 years is set to return to East Lancashire on bank holiday Monday.

Final preparations are being made for the staging of the Great Harwood Agricultural Show, which has been a mainstay of the town since 1925.

The New Showground, at the corner of Harwood Lane and Whalley Road, will host the proceedings, which promise everything from traditional competition and classes to stunt riders, birds of prey and cuisine from across the continents.

A show spokesman said earlier this week: "The ground is looking great, and so is the weather forecast. We are looking forward to putting a quality show on for you all."

Riders from Les Amis' jousting stunt team will be working with their beautiful Andalusian, Friesian, Lusitano and Hungarian horses for a breathtaking display in the main arena.

And the SMJ Birds of Prey Flying Display will bring everything from small owls to kestrels, falcons and large eagles along for two shows on the day.

Elsewhere entries have been secured across a range of categories for the Heavy Horse Supreme Championship, one of several animal contests, alongside a pet dog show, showjumping classes and competitions for cattle, sheep and ponies.

Organisers say that unfortunately due to the bird flu outbreak and other restrictions there will be no poultry and eggs and rabbit sections at the 2024 show.

Children's games will feature old favourites like welly throwing, the sack race and an egg and spoon dash

Trade stalls will be plentiful, offering a range of products from agricultural, outdoor and equestrian businesses and there is also a dedicated craft marquee, filled with stalls of locally produced craft items and handmade goods.

Food and drink offerings will include vegetarian and gluten-free options. Promoters have pledged traditional breakfasts, bacon butties, black peas, black puddings, chips, curries, pies, cheeses, samosas, filled baked potatoes and hog roasts are all on the menu. Or the more adventurous can sample ostrich, bison, kangaroo or camel teacakes. Sweet treats will also be available and there is a beer tent.

Great Harwood Agricultural Society traces it roots back to 1857 and for decades had a showground off Wood Street. The New Showground was opened in 2008 and the show's main arena is named in memory of longstanding show chairman and president Geoffrey Hanson.