Thousands of people are expected to flock to one of the borough’s biggest annual events this weekend.

Organisers of the Great Harwood Agricultural Show expect this year’s event to be the biggest yet with thousands of visitors anticipated to enjoy a range of fun events for all the family. Last year's event saw more than 10,000 visitors to the annual show.

Back by popular demand is the jousting and knightly event, The Knights of the Damned, which will be one of the main attractions.

Also making a welcome return for a third year running is the British Strongman Competition, the vintage car display, double the size of last year’s, a tug of war, and a mixed dog display from the Reiver Rebels Flyball Team and Mellor Dog School with more than 400 dogs.

There will also be an enter-on-the-day competition open to all dogs from mongrels to pedigrees with trophies awarded for categories such as the waggiest tail and the saddest eyes.

A community marquee will showcase local groups and organisations and host competitions for children, judged by Tommy Donbavand, West End actor and author of the Scream Street series of children’s books.

Carol Armer, who has helped organise the show for 30 years, said: “It is something traditional which brings farming and agriculture to people from towns who don’t get chance to see cattle and sheep.

“At the show they can handle them and may even be encouraged to go into agricultural work.

“The event brings the community together - it’s growing every year and is just a great day out on your doorstep.”

The retired grandma-of-two, who used to run a gardening business, added: “People from all over the country come to exhibit here and the kids love it.

“It’s a lot of hard work but people’s reactions make it all worth it.”

Donkey rides, a bouncy castle and slide and fairground rides will ensure the young ones are kept entertained and the Bowley Hill Trail Race will also go ahead after runner Nick Gaskell and Trawden AC took over the responsibility from Harry Haseley.

The Great Harwood Agricultural Show is on Bank Holiday Monday, May 25, from 8.30am to 5pm.

Entry is £7.50 for adults, £5 for pensioners and £3 for children. Showground parking is free with a free park and ride service from car parks and pick up points around the town.