THERE is one event which is going from strength to strength and breathing new life into the town where it is staged.

The annual Mirfield Agricultural Show now attracts between 10,000 and 15,000 visitors into Mirfield and is the highlight of the town’s calendar.

Although it draws in people from as far afield as Wales and the Midlands, it is the show’s impact on the people who live in the town which is its real legacy.

Three years ago the show committee shifted focus to appeal to families. A group of younger volunteers joined and got involved in the enormous organisational task.

The show has now grown into a massive event for Mirfield with hundreds of local people and schoolchildren taking part in the displays alongside traditional showing of animals and plants. Every year young and old turn out in rain or shine to see the best the town has to offer.

And one thing’s guaranteed – there’s something to please everyone.

Past attractions have included helicopter displays, the army parachute team, llama agility and cancan dancers on horseback.

This year the meerkats in the conservationist mini zoo will undoubtable be a crowd pleaser. Other events lined up include rabbit, poultry and floral sections which have now become interactive with hands-on experiences to appeal to younger visitors.

There will be Jersey cows and talks on milking, prize cattle and sheep, horses, puppet shows, Kirklees Youth Band, a soft play area and play beach, a big increase in artisan food stalls, bee-keeping demonstrations and birds of prey.

The community dog show is incredibly popular with 10 classes attracting over 500 entries. Last year, there were so many entries that the Best in Show class lasted for over an hour.

Organising committee member Richard Hartley said: “It’s a fantastic day out and all credit to the really strong team of organisers. We have got a lot of younger people involved and it is great as they keep coming up with new ideas

“This year we have expanded and the show promises to be bigger and better than ever. Our hope is that people come out, have a great day and leave with a smile on their face. If they do, all the hard work will have been worth it.”

This year the show will be held on Sunday, August 18.