SUFFOLK Show organisers have predicted tens of thousands of visitors to the two day event - with all eyes on the weather.

James Marston

SUFFOLK Show organisers have predicted tens of thousands of visitors to the two day event - with all eyes on the weather.

Hundreds of exhibitors braved wind and rain yesterday as they flocked to the showground at Trinity Park to put the finishing touches to the show.

John Bacon, of Weatherquest, said Thursday is expected to be the brighter of the two days.

He added: “Wednesday we are expecting to be quite cloudy with patches of rain from the mid-morning to mid-afternoon. So not the best weather for the Suffolk Show, though it is not likely to be heavy rain.

“On Thursday it will be cloudy to start with but brightening up with spells of sunshine.”

Executive director of the Suffolk Agricultural Association (SAA) Chris Bushby said the show will reflect the best of Suffolk.

Mr Bushby said: “It is fair to say it has been a challenge this year in terms of the economic conditions. People were initially slow to respond in coming to the show but six or eight weeks ago it suddenly all changed.

“The county has come together to make sure the show celebrates the best of Suffolk.”

Visitors are set to enjoy the traditional sights of livestock as well as craft displays, show jumping, trade stands, flower arrangements, food and drink, and entertainments.

Mr Bushby said highlights include a cookery theatre and a number of interactive displays and activities.

He added: “The Suffolk Show is an all inclusive event and the visitor can expect a show that is full of entertainment at all levels. “Suffolk is a great place with great people and the show reflects that. Over the last five years we have averaged about 85,000 visitors.”

Show director Peter Over, an Elmswell-based farmer, said planning for the 2009 Suffolk Show began as soon as the 2008 show ended.

He added: “We have wonderful help from 16 senior stewards and 350 other stewards. Suffolk has come together and it should be celebrated. We are very lucky to live here, we have a wonderful coast line and food and drink and scenery.

“We have fabulous people and it is a fantastic place to live. The Suffolk Show is the county's biggest day out and the best way to show off the best of our county.”

Mr Over said he is always impressed by the Grand Parade of livestock held in the Grand Ring.

He added: “It is always a wonderful display and an amazing sight. It puts a smile on everyone's face.”

With 100 new exhibitors and sponsors, seven parade rings, luxury lifestyle pavilion, food hall, art show, flower tent, craft marquee and packed schedules throughout the two day event, the 178th show will be stamped with the Royal seal of approval by HRH The Duke of Kent tomorrow.

Yesterday traders were hoping for a show which showcases their products and services.

Tom Mason, salesman for Worlingworth-based agricultural machiner dealership P Tuckwell Ltd said the firm has brought �1million of machinery to the show.

He added: “We are here to promote our products at the show. It is a way of meeting our customers old and new, keeping up with the industry. We come every year.”

- The Suffolk Show is held at Trinity Park tomorrow and Thursday.

Doors open 7.30am. Tickets at the gate are �17 adults, children �6, Senior citizens, over 60, �14, family tickets �40 and cars �5.