CLOSE to 20,000 people are expected to attend the 104th Tendring Hundred Show this year.

The renowned agricultural show, taking place on July 13, was first held in 1899 and has become an important event in Tendring’s calendar.

The 2019 president for the family show is dairy farmer Philip Smith.

Mr Smith’s family have been long-time supporters of the show and he follows in the footsteps of his grandmother, who was president back in 1966 and his father, Andrew, who was president in 1992.

The show’s main theme will be ‘The Delights of Dairy’, focusing on dairy-themed activities including a live milking parlour.

Mr Smith said: “Dairy farming in the eastern region has a proud history.

“Visitors to the theme area at this year’s show will have a chance to see first-hand what we do as dairy farmers and the wide variety of dairy products we are responsible for producing and consumers enjoy.”

This year’s show will also feature the favourite quad-bike adrenaline tour and a grand parade of livestock.

There will also be a sheep show, an adventure farm, a bigger and better food pavilion, art show, education tent and more.

Ring displays will include a new vintage and modern farming machinery display, hound parade and vintage cars.

Dog owners can enter their pets into the agility competition and there is a countryside area with everything from bees to bats.

Will King, the newly appointed chairman of the Tendring Hundred Farmers’ Club, said: “There will be more than 250 trade stands and exhibitions to visit.

“The trade stand space for the main showground was fully booked by mid-March which is hugely encouraging and a testament to the popularity of the show.

“It’s set to be another great event with lots of new attractions and our team of volunteers are working as hard as ever to prepare the showground for the day.”

The showground is at Lawford House Park in Bromley Road, Lawford.

Tickets are £17 per adult on the gate or £15 when bought in advance.

Senior tickets are £16 on the gate or £14 in advance and children between five and 15 can enter for £5 on the gate or £4 in advance.

Visit tendringshow.co.uk.