PIGS are making a welcome return to Nidderdale Show after a five-year absence.
The show, which is held in Pateley Bridge on September 22 is the last in the northern farming calendar.
Last year there was disappointment when cattle, sheep and goat classes were cancelled because of foot and mouth restrictions.
Earlier this y
ear there were concerns about bluetongue restrictions, but the usual livestock classes are to be held.
They will be supplemented by four classes for breeding pigs – sow in pig, gilt in pig, maiden gilt, boar pig. All of the classes are from any breed.
Chief pig steward Keith Hardcastle, a past chairman and president of the Nidderdale Agricultural Society and who was made a life member earlier this year, explained the re-emergence of the pigs.
He said: "It was decided at the beginning of the year to include these classes in 2008 as pigs are not affected by the bluetongue disease."
Their inclusion in the show schedule was intended as a guarantee that there would be some livestock at the show in case further bluetongue restrictions were put in place.
Heavy horse classes will be a feature of the main ring where this year there will also be the Chariots of Fire Display Team and terrier racing.
The show will begin with the traditional parade down Pateley Bridge High Street led by Wakefield Metropolitan Band.
The Nidderdale Agricultural Society, which was founded in 1895 and had the Prince of Wales as its guest of honour at the centenary show, owns its own showground at Bewerley Park beside the River Nidd.
Entries for this year's show close on August 30.
Further information on all classes is available from the show secretary, Sue Monk on 01969 650129.
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