THOUSANDS of people are expected to flock to an annual show celebrating the rich agricultural history of Tendring.

The 104th Tendring Hundred Show aims to bring the rural and urban populations of north Essex together for a day of informative and family-friendly fun.

First held in 1899, the show maintains its strong agricultural heritage with large displays of farming machinery and livestock.

This year the show’s primary theme will be “The Delights of Dairy”, focusing on dairy themed hands-on activities - including a live milking parlour.

Philip Smith, the show’s president and a dairy farmer, said visitors will get the chance to see how the industry operates.

A host of entertainment offerings, including a quad bike stunt show, a grand parade of livestock class winners and a sheep show, will keep visitors busy.

A family theme area will include a visit from Hasty’s Adventure Farm, while organisers promise a “bigger and better” food pavilion and street food zone.

The food pavilion will feature a celebration of regional food and producers, with a new-look chef demonstration area.

Artists will display their work at an art show and lifestyle zone, where punters will get the chance to buy anything from bespoke furniture, fabrics and rugs to designer clothes.

The work of more than 30 schools and institutions will be showcased in the education tent.

The main ring will display vintage and modern farming machinery, host the “Farming on the Move” agricultural machinery show and exhibit vintage cars.

Dog owners will be able to enter their pets into the “Tendring Dog Agility - Have a Go Ring”, with the help of experienced trainers and handlers.

The countryside area will host a fascinating array of animals - from bats to owls - with informative exhibits about the steps which must be taken to secure the future of our countryside.

Animals including guinea pigs, pigeons, rabbits, sheep and horses will all be on show.

Hundreds of stands will give visitors plenty of choice when it comes to shopping.

Will King, 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 is 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 show, expected to attract close to 20,000 people, will be held throughout Saturday, at Lawford House Park, in Bromley Road, Lawford.