More than 130,000 expected to attend this year’s Great Yorkshire Show from today

The agricultural show will run until Thursday at the 250-acre Harrogate showground.

Last year the final two days of the show had to be cancelled following the wettest summer on record. More than £500,000 was spent ‘weather-proofing’ the site in readiness for this year’s showcase of rural life, but forecasters say the weather is expected to stay fine.

Nigel Pulling, chief executive of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, said: “What a difference a year makes. The contrast to last year could not be greater. The weather during the build up to the event has been ideal and we are looking forward to a fantastic three days.”

As well as around 8,000 animals competing for the championship prizes, the prestigious showcase of agricultural and country life will play host to a wide range of well-known celebrities over the next three days, including author Jilly Cooper, TV chef Rosemary Shrager and gardening expert Christine Walkden.

Highlights include a mock battle staged by The Yorkshire regiment each day in the Main Ring, with displays by The White Helmets, The Royal Signals’ Motor Cycle Display Team, taking place daily.

Top class showjumping is also on the agenda with the prestigious Ripon Select Foods Cock O’ the North Trophy. The 2013 Grand National winner Auroras Encore and his trainers Harvey and Sue Smith will make a guest appearance on the final day.

Fashion, food, country pursuits and shopping opportunities will also help keep visitors entertained.

The show is open daily from 7.30am to 7.30pm, and until 6.30pm on Thursday.