ORGANISERS of the Three Counties Agricultural Society's flagship event are determined this year's Three Counties Countryside Show will bounce back from disappointments caused by foot and mouth.

Last year's show had to be cancelled altogether and this year's will not feature livestock competitions because of stringent bio-security rules, but other aspects have been expanded to compensate.

A gun dog scurry, fly casting, clay pigeon shooting for everyone from complete novices to experts and rifle and catapult ranges will feature in a brand new "game fair style" section alongside activities such as game rearing, fly tying, weaving and smithing.

Country sport enthusiasts can take their pick from fishing, hunting, coursing, ferrets and falconry, and entertainments in the enhanced Countryside Arena will include gun dogs, heavy horses and terrier racing, together with Horse Whisperer Gary Witheford.

The new emphasis is reflected in the addition of "countryside" to the show's title for the first time. "We have got to diversify, like other people are diversifying," said spokesman Sharon Gilbert.

She added the new emphasis also allowed the society to concentrate on its remit to educate people about "Britain's greatest natural asset".

As well as hands-on activities for all age groups, each day will feature two seminars with experts attempting to unravel the complexities of the modern countryside and leading discussions on the future of rural life.

Livestock displays from more than 20 different breed societies will feature at the show and equestrian events have also been expanded. More than 1,600 entries have been received for its horse competitions and traditional events such as the Shetland Pony Grand National and the Parade of Hounds will be complimented by new competition classes.

Main arena events will include the Red Devils Parachute Regiment Freefall Team, the Royal Signals White Helmets Motorcycle Display Team, Gus Dermody and his sheepdogs, hot air balloons and educational events on everything from rural crafts to food production. Motorcycle grass track racing will also return to the show for the first time since 1989.

Organisations such as the National Farmers' Union, the Countryside Alliance, the Country Land and Business Association and the Countryside Foundation for Education will be represented alongside a wide variety of trade stands.

"The show will provide farmers and country lovers with a reliable source of information and business advice and a much-needed venue where they can meet up and socialise," said Mrs Gilbert.

The show will run from June 14 to 16, and tickets are available on 01684 584900 or at www.threecounties.co.uk.