COMPETITORS at upcoming ploughing matches will be keeping on the straight and narrow in the hope of winning a prize.

On Sunday, September 14, the Vintage Tractor Society is holding a competition at Massington Farm, Chance's Pitch, just off the A449, from 10am. Fifty ploughmen will be entering a number of classes, steam engines and a threshing machine will be on display and there will also be competitions for children.

On Sunday, October 5, at Rose Hill Farm, Dymock, on the B4215 near Preston Cross, the Ledbury Ploughing Society is holding its annual event from 10am onwards.

The society has existed for more than 100 years, and this year's competition has sections for ploughing, hops and domestic goods. Visitors can see an exhibition of vintage tractors and steam traction engines.

Christine Bradley, secretary of the society, said that more than £1,000 was made on the gate of last year's event, which was featured in The Times.