FROM a steam engine to a flight simulator, from pygmy goats to shire horses, this year's Otley Show is bringing both traditional and new elements together for family entertainment.

On Saturday, May 22, the show, which is 203 years old this year, will once again be held at the Bridge End Showground.

And while there is plenty to keep the family entertained, the show's agricultural pedigree is perhaps stronger than ever, with the return of Dairy Shorthorn Cattle, first shown in 1796, and Aberdeen Angus classes after a long absence.

Janet Raw, show secretary, said that there were a fantastic number of entries for this year's show, with traditional favourites and new attractions.

She said: "We are hoping that with nice weather, we will get as many people as last year. We have got a lot of regulars coming on the trade stands and there are some new ones as well.

"I think it has been a success this year. It must be, because the numbers are up. We have got some lovely rare breeds coming as well.

"We have also got two bands, Otley Brass Band and the Lofthouse and Middlesmoor Silver Band. They will be taking turns to perform throughout the day."

Exhibitors will be travelling from all over the country for a Horse of the Year Show Qualifier for shire horses, all competing in the hope of qualifying for Wembley.

The smaller four-legged friends also play a part with the exemption dog show, with prizes for all entrants and rosettes for winners.

Throughout the day, a gun dog scurry, organised by the Yorkshire Spaniel Club, will be taking place. And the South Cheshire Dog Display Team will be providing a perfect balance between serious dog handling and crowd entertainment.

It consists of up to 12 handlers and dogs of various breeds ranging from the Bernese Mountain Dog to a Yorkshire Terrier.

In addition to this main ring attractions, visiting this year is the Burstow Wildlife Sanctuary which presents rescued or donated animals, these could include an Indian Fruit Bat, Meerkat, Silver Fox and a Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pig.

The fun starts from 8am on the day and tickets are now on sale at the show office in Bridge Street, Otley, and at selected town centre shops, and under-fives get in for free

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