ONE of the highlights of the rural calendar begins tomorrow as the New Forest show welcomes thousands of people and some special VIP guests.

This year’s show, at Brockenhurst ’s New Park, will be given a Royal seal of approval when the Queen and Prince Philip pay a visit on Wednesday.

And with author and world-famous gardener Alan Titchmarsh stepping into the role of show president, this year will be one to remember.

As well as all the favourite sights to see, including the ever-popular Shetland Pony Grand National and One Man and His Dog, who will be displaying sheep dog techniques in the main ring, visitors can also enjoy the Solent Dog display and the Heavy Horse Musical Drive.

The poultry tent will also be back with chickens, ducks and other rare breeds on display with parades galore showing off miniature horses, hunting hounds and the amazing sheep show, not forgetting the equestrian events.

Colourful blooms will be on display at the flower show along with giant vegetables and the opportunity to see a brand new rose officially named.

Visitors wanting a true rural experience can go to the countryside section where there will be ferret and terrier racing, fly fishing, falconry, gun and drug dog demonstrations as well as all day game cookery demonstrations.