In its now very familiar surroundings at Withybush, just north of Haverfordwest the three day Pembrokeshire County Show on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of next week (August 14, 15 and 16) could be yet another record breaker. The society was established as long ago as 1784 by a brilliant young Irishman and former Under Secretary of State for America, William Knox, who settled in Pembrokeshire the previous year. 1951 saw the first two-day event and in 1981 the show moved to three days and a successful pattern developed by the time the bi-centenary was celebrated in 1984, with the show's first Royal visit in the person of the Princess Royal. The show has progressed from strength to strength at Withybush and many new buildings including a Pavilion, exhibition halls and spacious livestock accommodation have been constructed on the fully owned site. With these continually improving facilities the Pembrokeshire County Show now stands out as the second largest agricultural Show in Wales -second only to the Royal Welsh - attracting in excess of 104,000 visitors last year. One the most impressive outdoor rural events in Wales three action packed days of fun and entertainment will captivate country folk and city residents alike - a key success factor in a county that welcomes tens of thousands of tourists annually. Livestock entries include 1,200 horses and ponies (and major participants on the show jumping circuit). Main attractions for this years show are the 'The Devils Horseman' and 'Titan, the Robot' who will doubtless amaze the crowds. In addition there are John Parker and his stagecoach - drawn by the magnificent team of greys - together with a vast assortment of competitions, demonstrations and exhibitions such as the pole climbers, the Welsh axe team, YFC demonstrations, poultry, craft, horticulture, photography, cage birds, agility dog show, vintage tractors (including steam engines), and working sheepdog trials. trotting races and over 620 trade stands The food hall provides the stage for a wide range of national and local produce and don't forget to venture through the Prendergast arena and the craft/shopping malls with an extensive array of products and services will be available, to suit everybody.

FOOTNOTE: Unfortunately, like others, the show has been affected by the latest Foot and Mouth outbreak in Surrey, but will still go ahead, albeit without cattle, sheep, pigs or goats in attendance. All other sections will be as normal, a spokesperson said this week.