THIS year’s Cricklade Show is set to be better than ever with a range of new attractions and activities coming to the showground.

The annual show, which is held at the showground at Upper Broadleaze Farm, combines the attractions of a typical rural show with horse jumping and dog judging, with the added attractions of fairground rides and trade stalls.

Run entirely by volunteers, the show forms an integral part of the town’s calendar and attracts thousands of people year on year.

Mark Clarke, Cricklade Show Chairman, said: “The small band of dedicated volunteers that make up the show committee are hard at work planning to ensure that the show this year is better than ever.

“I am now pleased to announce that we have engaged the Stannage International Stunt Team to provide some thrills and spills in the main arena.

“We also have a range of other new features as well as the traditional attractions of the premier horse show, two dog shows, trade and craft stands, the fair, classic vehicles and more.”

As well as the horse show, which will feature more than six classes and is considered one of the best shows in the south west, there will be a Fun Companion Dog Show run by Swindon Needy Dogs, who will also be offering free microchipping.

In the animal corner Seb Miller from Jungletalk will be on hand to display a range of exotic animals.

There will also be a carriage driving section, an exhibition of classic and vintage vehicles, and numerous displays of workmanship in the arts and crafts section.

In the main arena there will be a variety of entertainments scheduled throughout the day, including displays from the Icarus Birds of Prey flying team and the Shane Hobbs Puissance.

The show takes place by kind permission of the Sweet family who own the 50 acre working farm, close to Chelworth Road from the end of The Forty.

Mark said: “Our thanks go to the Sweet family for making the show grounds available to us again this year, without this there would simply be no show.

“As you might expect, arranging the show takes a lot of work and so we are always looking for extra help.”

Funds raised by the show are ploughed back into the event for the following year but also go towards supporting local community groups, including the Cricklade Cricket Club, Minety Dance School, Young Farmers, Thames Pre-school, Cricklade Guides, Cancer Research and Pets as Therapy.

Around 10 years ago the show was primarily an agricultural show, but following the foot and mouth crisis the show has involved into a horse-led event with numerous other attractions.

Gates open on Bank Holiday Monday from 9am. Tickets cost £7 for adults and £4 for children. Family tickets for up to two adults and three children cost £15.