FINAL preparations are in being put in place for the historic Great Yorkshire Show which kicks off this week.

More trade stands will be on show than at any time in the event's 168-year history as more than 1,000 exhibitors descend on the annual country showcase at the Harrogate Showground.

The three-day event starts tomorrow when exhibitors will range from Harvey Nichols to farm machinery and the Rugby Football Union, which will display the World Cup England won in 2003.

Members of the National Farmers' Union (NFU) north-east regional office will also be collecting cash at the show to help farmers who lost fencing and livestock in the Helmsley flash flooding disaster.

The ticket hotline is on 01423 541222 or tickets can be bought on the gate.

Parking is free and extensive while there will also be a free and frequent shuttle bus from Harrogate Railway Station over all three days.

Updated: 11:51 Monday, July 11, 2005