TWO of the great annual agricultural shows are taking place this week.

The Burwarton Show takes place today (Thursday) meaning the return of an event that was a victim of the wash out summer in 2012 but has been a feature of the farming year in south Shropshire for generations.

Then on Saturday Tenbury has its once a year agricultural showcase on the town’s showground.

This will be a traditional mix of serious farming and family fun.

The serious side of things begins early in the morning when the judging will start of the 29th National Show of Hereford Cattle.

There will also be sheep judging and a display of winning livestock.

Farmers and members of the agricultural community will have the chance to meet as they take a break from the field and orchards.

It will also be an opportunity for the next generation of farmers to come together as the show has been chosen for the National Federation of Young Farmers Tug of War Finals.

Heats will take place throughout the day with the final in the main ring late in the afternoon.

Another draw in the main ring will be what promises to be a spectacular display from The Devil’s Horsemen Cossack Riders that will include jousting.

There will be displays of vintage tractors and other vehicles, as well as falconry and birds of prey.

Animals of various types will be shown by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust and there will also be ferret racing.

Rural arts and crafts have a marquee of their own and a variety of children’s entertainment will be available.

People intending to visit the show are reminded that only assistance dogs will be allowed on the showground.

This caused some controversy when it was introduced two years ago but seems now to have been accepted as being in the best interests of the show, its visitors and the dogs.

Admission to the show is £10 for adults and £3 for concessions with children under five free.