Final preparations for Shropshire County Show under way

Stages have been set up at the Berwick Road showground in Shrewsbury, grass cut, bunting put up and silverware - some of which dates back to 1875 - polished in readiness for the event on Saturday.

Organisers say they have been astounded by the actions of those determined to see the show staged. They include young offenders who have got their hands dirty clearing up sewage brought in to the showground's buildings by flood waters to retired plumbers who gave up their free time to install new toilets after vandals smashed up two toilet blocks on the site.

Now they are hoping this year's show - which is being held for the fifth time following the collapse of the former West Mid Show - will attract record entries and huge crowds.

Judith Williams, a trustee of the show, said: "Everyone has been absolutely wonderful," said show trustee Judith Williams. "After the lads from HMP Stoke Heath had worked so hard to sort out the site following the flooding and then the toilets were vandalised, we were really worried.

"But the response from everyone has been overwhelming. Wrekin Housing Trust came on Tuesday and Wednesday to help install more toilets for us and did 20 in one day alone. We had a wonderful man Reg Plover, a 78-year-old retired plumber from Shrewsbury come down as well and he helped out too.

"The lads from Stoke Heath have been amazing for all they have done here. Following the floods, they mucked in, and literally got dirty helping to clear the site of rubbish, sewage, fallen trees and branches and stones. Then when the toilets were broken they helped to strip the blocks out and pile up all the smashed pans. I do think it is fair to say that without them and their hard work, the show could have been under threat. They have been totally amazing."

Organisers say the main goal of the annual show is to highlight and promote the vital role that the agricultural industry - in Shropshire and further afield - plays in the economy.

A temporary pontoon bridge is being set up across the River Severn to help people walk to the show and ease congestion. Calls have already been made to motorists travelling to the show to avoid Shrewsbury town centre on Saturday amid fears of traffic building up.

What's on at this year's show: