A SHOWCASE for the countryside will welcome competitive classes for harrier hounds for the first time when it returns later this year.

The 151st Great Yorkshire Show takes place in Harrogate on Tuesday, July 14.

Honorary show director Bill Cowling said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming harrier packs to the show. I am sure the classes will prove hugely popular with both exhibitors and visitors alike.”

The harriers will be based in the new Hound Show area which is being created at the south west side of the showground. Last year some 126,376 visitors attended the Great Yorkshire Show, including Her Majesty The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.