The National Stud is to launch an exciting new event during Newmarket's popular July Week to replace its Stallion Parade and Trade Fair, previously held over two days in December.

The National Stud is to launch an exciting new event during Newmarket's popular July Week to replace its Stallion Parade and Trade Fair, previously held over two days in December.

The The National Stud July Fair will run over three days and evenings up to 26 on 8,9,10 July as part of an initiative supported by the East of England Development Agency (EEDA).

Running alongside the July Cup Meeting and Tattersalls Sales, the events combined are expected to attract over 30,000 visitors to Newmarket and its surrounding areas.

The National Stud July Fair is being promoted as A Celebration of the Horse and one that is expected to become a major event for the region.

The National Stud July Fair, with sponsorship from Kubota, easibed and Pacemaker, will be a high profile showcase event for the racing and bloodstock industry with over 140 trade stands.

Visitors to The National Stud July Fair can expect a packed programme of high quality equestrian and country lifestyle entertainment that will run during the daytime through to 9pm in the evening on all three days.

There will be a central main arena with grandstand seating and surrounding hospitality marquees, as well as many outdoor and indoor trade stands. The new format will include arena displays.

Fiona Bryant, EEDA's rural policy manager, said: "EEDA is pleased to support the National Stud July Fair as there is a great need to raise the profile of the cluster of organisations and businesses which support the horse racing and equestrian sector in Newmarket, both nationally and internationally.

"This sector is an important economic driver for Newmarket and surrounding areas and EEDA wants to assist in its future development through various initiatives, including our sponsorship for this major event."

The Fair will also include the Household Cavalry's Musical Ride, working displays by Suffolk Punches, a pageant of horse-drawn carriages, rehabilitated racehorses, a parade of mares and foals, examples of British Rare Breeds horses and ponies, as well as incredible 'horsepower' challenges.

These are just a taste of the many attractions lined up for this Newmarket spectacle.

Additionally, there will be falconry displays and country lifestyle entertainment including cookery and craft demonstrations.

There will be daily sheep dog displays by One Man and His Dog winner, Katie Cropper and her team of animals.

Trade exhibitors will be grouped in themed zones covering Equestrian Trades, Equine Nutrition and Bedding, Clothing, Leisure and Travel, and Equine Education.

There will also be a dedicated Thoroughbred and Racing area, live exhibits, and working demonstrations of vehicles and machinery.

Admission to The National Stud July Fair costs £5 (adult) and £3 (child).

Newmarket Racecourse is also offering a discounted combined package for visitors wanting to attend the Racing and the Fair, and details by telephoning Newmarket Racecourse on 01638 663482.

There are also a number of corporate hospitality packages with access to the Fair and the Racing in prime location private suites or the VIP Restaurant.. A dedicated website has been set up for the event, www.nationalstudfair.co.uk