CATTLE and sheep will be making a triumphant return to Otley Show next month.

With just three weeks to go before the North's first agricultural show of the year, hopes are high that the crowds will return in their thousands.

And after last year, when livestock was absent because of the foot and mouth epidemic, the show's major draw will be back in force.

Stringent bio-security regulations by the Department for Farming and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) will still be in place at the show on Saturday, May 17, but, unlike some of the smaller shows, Otley Show believes it can cope.

Show secretary Janet Raw said everyone was working hard to make it a memorable show.

"This year sees the very welcome return of cattle, sheep and pygmy goats, although stringent restrictions are still in force and much extra work will be involved before, during and after the show," she said.

The Department for Farming and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) restrictions mean exhibitors will have to adhere to the rules.

Cattle, sheep and goats will be confined into special livestock sections and all entering and leaving will have to walk over specially treated mats.

"I'm confident that the show will be very successful and I know that my many volunteer stewards will ensure that the regulations are met," said Mrs Raw.

The horse section, show jumping, and showing, has been well supported and has the addition this year of two qualifiers for the Coloured Horse and Pony Society.

Once again, the show will play host to a regional show for The Poultry Club of Great Britain and will also be hosting The Leghorn Club Spring Show. The hugely popular poultry marquee will for the first time be shared by rabbits.

"It is many years since these were exhibited at Otley Show and they are always a huge favourite with children," said Mrs Raw.

Unfortunately, Mrs Raw is still short of someone to run the exemption dog show, which normally takes place from around 3pm.

"I need someone who could run this for me. If anyone feels able to help, I would urge them to contact me as soon as possible."

Main attraction in the show arena will be The Mount Grace Gun Dog Display with two 40-minute shows through the afternoon.

There will also be a Medieval display featuring knights in combat, and for the traditionalists, displays of vintage tractors and a chainsaw demonstration.

With plenty of refreshments on sale, trade stands and children's entertainment - including a helter skelter, inflatable slide and laser game - the show is guaranteed to be a great day out for all the family.

Entries closed on Thursday last week, but allowances are being made because of Easter.

l Membership tickets, including three tickets - one for two children - are £15. Day tickets at £5 for adults, £4 before the day, seniors £3 (£2), and child £1.50 (£1) are on sale at many shops and post offices in Otley and at the tourist information offices in both Otley and Ilkley, and from The Wharfedale Observer, 9 Orchard Gate, Otley, or from the Show Office, Bridge Street.

l Anyone willing to run the dog show should contact Janet Raw on (01943) 462541 or (07961) 966952.

l Children still have time to enter the competition to design the cover of the show programme.

Mrs Raw has visited schools in the town to tell pupils about the competition and is hoping for a good entry. The competition will be judged on the day of the show by Peter Brown, of Brown's Gallery, who is donating £25 to the overall winner.