THE Great Yorkshire Show is booming as a marketing tool for business.

This year £140,000 has been spent on sponsorships of the event by companies ranging from huge bodies such as NatWest and Sainsbury's to those with obvious Yorkshire links such as Yorkshire Electricity and Skipton Building Society. Total sponsorship is up by 25 per cent on last year, and a massive 133 per cent on 1997.

Show director Christopher Hall said: "The growth in interest by the business community can be attributed to a number of factors.

"We attract affluent customers across many sectors, we are the premier annual event in the region's calendar and we have a loyal and satisfied customer base, but continue to attract new visitors.

"The show is an enjoyable occasion, providing the ideal opportunity to mix business and pleasure."

PICTURE: Crowds at the Great Yorkshire Show yesterday Pictures: David Harrison