Getting ready for the party . . .

Animal management student Abby Ramsden gets Highland calf Eve the 12th Escafeld ready for this weekend's Highland Fling at the Graves Park Animal Farm in Graves Park, Sheffield.

By The Newsroom

Published 29th Apr 2010, 00:27 BST

Updated 29th Apr 2010, 00:27 BST

Some of the rarest farm animals in the country were being washed, brushed and pampered yesterday in preparation for the Highland Fling in Graves Park.

The festival, which takes place on Bank Holiday Monday next week, is one of the biggest Highland cattle shows in the UK and will also include a funfair, stalls, Shire horse rides and falconry displays.

Yesterday Sheffield Council staff at Graves Park's rare breeds centre were preparing the long-haired Highland cattle, as well as Jacob sheep and Tamworth goats, for their time in the spotlight.

The council's community events co-ordinator, June Burke, said: "We know this is an event that so many people look forward to, as it seems to be popular with all members of the family."

Admission to the Highland Fling, which runs from 10.30am to 4.30pm, is free. Parking is available for 3 at the Derbyshire Lane and Hemsworth Road entrance to the park.