Thousands of visitors are expected to embrace country life tomorrow weekend as a popular traditional fair returns for its ninth year.

Buckham Fair will return to Buckham Down, near Beaminster, tomorrow.

The fair - complete with horse, pony and dog shows - is a big hit with locals and visitors looking for a traditional country experience.

Hosted by actor Martin Clunes and his wife Phillipa, it has raised a staggering £413,500 for charities Weldmar, Julia's House and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance since it began in 2008.

This year is again the turn of the air ambulance and promises 'a bumper-crop of newness' with new displays, food vendors and trade stalls offering a range of gifts, food, crafts and art.

Buckham Fair has become a true Dorset vintage affair, attracting visitors from all over the country - and the world - with some travelling from as far afield as the US and Australia.

For those who are more adventurous and keen to take part themselves, the fair's star attraction is its variety of dog and horse classes.

The Rescue and Re-homed Dog Championship will also return to the fair for a sixth year, with more than 80 dogs qualifying for this year's final.

The winner will see £350 to go to their chosen UK-registered and approved dog charity.

Prize money will awarded for up to sixth place.

Mr Clunes' Men Behaving Badly co-star Neil Morrissey will also make a guest appearance. He will judge a special dog class in which four-legged participants will be judged by how closely they resemble the famous actor.

A spokesman said: "All proceeds raised from the day will be donated to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, a fantastic trust which, every day, makes such a huge difference in many of our lives.

"Buckham Fair continues to grow bigger and better year after year – and the team couldn’t be prouder of presenting you with yet another reason to enjoy a great day out in Dorset’s beautiful countryside."

Gates open at 9am and tickets cost £7 for adults and children aged under 16 go free.

Tickets are only available from the gate on the day and are not sold in advance.