It's showtime!

Two days of countryside fun and frolics continue today as the Dorset County Show is held.

The annual event at the Dorchester Showground attracts more than 60,000 people and boasts a variety of attractions, livestock, and fun for all the family.

The main ring attraction this year is Jason Smyth, ex-world championship motocross rider, and his Adrenaline Tour which includes a performance of live jaw-dropping stunts on quads and motorbikes.

NFU President, Minette Batters was a special guest at the show yesterday and will be hosting a Q&A session about agricultural matters.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the Fabulous Food & Farming Education Area which details the important role farming plays in our everyday lives and allows children to learn while they have fun with the different interactive displays.

Throughout the weekend hundreds of competitive classes will be taking place for cattle, sheep, goats and pigs, through to homecraft, horticulture and sheep shearing. Poultry, rabbits and alpacas will also be on show, with falconry displays, scurry racing and the Grand Parade of award-winning livestock.

Food enthusiasts can try an extensive range of hand-picked catering concessions, each specialising in a different type of cuisine, showcasing local food producers.

New for 2019, the show is introducing ‘Dorchester Street’, a dedicated trade avenue showcasing local businesses. High-end country items will also be found in the specialist ‘Shopping@theAvenue’ marquee.

Will Hyde, show secretary, said: “After months of preparations Dorset County Show is here and we are excited to welcome thousands of visitors over the weekend. The weather forecast is looking promising and with a strong, diverse line-up of attractions and entertainment, there is no better way to spend time with your family before we say goodbye to summer for the year."

He added: “Each year we invest in a jam-packed programme of activities that appeals to all ages and a variety of interests, while still celebrating agriculture in Dorset. We look forward to another successful year, championing Dorset’s agricultural roots and promoting the important role farming still plays in our daily lives.”

The showground is about a mile from Dorchester and is signposted from the A35 bypass. Turn towards Dorchester town centre at the Kingston Maurward roundabout and take the first right. The showground is on the left. A shuttle bus service will pick up and drop off from various locations around Dorchester. See the show website to view the timetable.

Tickets are £18 and can be bought at the gate or via dorsetcountyshow.co.uk or call 01305 264249. Children under 16 go free.