Nidderdale Show: Yorkshire Dales gearing up for 'friendliest' agricultural show

Now, with a change to a Sunday date rather than a Monday for September, there are hopes it could make for a greater uptake of entries.

Organisers were forced to make the change last minute in 2022 so as not to clash with the Queen's funeral, but found it opened up options for more people wanting to attend.

Alex Smith, of organisers the Nidderdale Agricultural Society (NAS) which has hosted the show since 1895 said there was a "silver lining" to be found.

"It raised the question - do we go back to how it was?," she said.

"There was an increase in ticket sales. There was an increase in the number of families coming. We also saw a sudden influx of people asking if they were too late to enter.

"We still are a very traditional Dales agricultural show," she added. "We take a lot of pride in showcasing the best of Nidderdale, and local cattle and sheep and equine.

"And what is really nice is that there is that tradition involved. There are a lot of families, following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents."

Nidderdale Show, on September 24 at the Bewerley Park showground, sees around £20,000 in prize money through various entries.

There are the livestock sections, and equine with showjumping, as well as small animals with pigeons, rabbits and cavies, then horticulture, produce and crafts.

This year there are two new sheep breed classes as well as honey for 2023 - while the traditional cricket match on the day can also prove competitive. Then dry stone walling, terrier racing, trade stands and brass bands, as well as a fairground and sheepdog trials.

Caterers will only serve British beef, ham and burgers, supporting campaigns to give farmers and food producers a fair price and a share of the profits across the food chain.

What was once a 'feast' for the community when it was first founded is now an event that can draw up to 15,000 people over just one day.

For those that attend it's a mix of traditions, said Ms Smith, with championing local talent, a chance to see old friends, and marking a celebration for the end of show season.

"It's showcasing the best of Nidderdale," she said. "For farmers, and breeders, to showcase their hard work from all year. And if you go home with a rosette or a prize that's a bonus. People don't always enter to win, they enter to support the show.

"This is a wonderful way of bringing it all together. People are very proud."