Countryside Live: Spike in ticket sales bodes well ahead of opening day

Countryside Live gets underway tomorrow for the first of two days of rural inspired action at the Great Yorkshire Showground this weekend, and early indications suggest strong attendance figures in what is the event’s 13th year.

Sales of advance tickets are up by 22 per cent, organisers at the Yorkshire Agricultural Society said.

The 1,759 tickets bought before opening day are the most recorded for six years at an event that has become known as the little sister of the Great Yorkshire Show.

Charles Mills, show director for Countryside Live at the YAS, said: “We’re looking forward to a wonderful two days at Countryside Live, and with the increase in advance ticket sales, all the signs are that plenty of others are thinking the same. This is an event which has really established itself on the calendar. It has a firm foundation in showcasing the excellence of British farming, but also includes a wide range of general attractions and activities.

“Each year there are slight tweaks to keep it fresh and relevant whilst remaining true to our roots and highlighting all that’s best about British agriculture and rural life.”

The classes for cattle, sheep and horses are at the heart of the event with exhibitors travelling from across the UK to compete for the championship awards, and many will go on to win prizes at other top shows.

Elsewhere there are activities for all ages. Included on the programme are farriery competitions, sheep racing organised by the Yorkshire Federation of Young Farmers, birds of prey demonstrations, dog agility displays, ferret racing and One Man and His Pig competitions.

Younger guests can get hands-on in the Create and Explore area.

Tickets will remain available on the gates this weekend.