The National Farmers' Union president today chose the county's premier agricultural gathering to issue fresh calls for the Government and Bank of England to help farmers struggling under the strength of the pound.

Speaking at the Great Yorkshire Show, which got under way beneath sunny skies, Ben Gill said the continuing impact of a strong pound on farming communities across Britain must end "without delay".

He said: "Farmers are reeling under the strength of the pound, which is sucking in imports, hitting exports and damaging the competitiveness of British products both at home and abroad.

"With farming income slashed all most in half last year they simply cannot stand up to the continuing onslaught from the strength of the pound, which is having a terrible impact.

"The Chancellor and the Bank of England Governor, Eddie George, must recognise the gravity of the situation, not just for agriculture but for the whole rural economy, and act now."

He also called on Europe for the beef export ban to be lifted if beef farmers were to have any chance of weathering the present crisis. He attacked politicians who had what he described as "other agendas".

Meanwhile, the most detailed survey ever undertaken on public fears about crime in North Yorkshire was launched at today's show.Researchers from the county's police force were inviting the public to complete a draft questionnaire on crime.

It is the first stage in the force's preparation for the introduction of the Crime and Disorder Bill, expected to be passed by Parliament this month.

Yorkshire show gears up for greatest show on turf

by Janet Hewison

The Great Yorkshire Show got off to a sunny start today and promised to be a great success.

The show, which attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year, has this year attracted nearly 10,000 entries.

It was expected to be a typical British summer day with sunshine and showers but organisers were confident of a good three-day event.

As visitors started to arrive this morning, the sky was almost totally blue with a brisk breeze as farmers and owners made their final preparations for the judges.

Lady Ingilby, spokeswoman for the Yorkshire Agricultural Society said: "As we start the show the weather is sunny. We realise we may get some showers but the ground conditions are good and we are confident that we have a full programme with plenty for people to do."

She said one area which had been developed this year was the country pursuits area which included a cookery theatre with demonstrations by top chefs.

This year marks the last show as director for Warren Fenwicke-Clennell who steps down on Thursday after five years at the helm.

He is succeeded by Christopher Hall, a Yorkshire businessman, who has stewarded at the show over much of the decade.

Speaking about his appointment Mr Hall said: "I am delighted to be taking up the role of Show Director and I am very much looking forward to being involved in the event.

"I am very aware of the traditions of the show which I feel are important to maintain whilst moving with the times. It is vital that the Great Yorkshire Show continues to support the agricultural industry and remains true to its roots."

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