THE district’s show season will draw to a close in the heart of Northumberland National Park this weekend.

Set in picturesque surroundings at High Rochester, the Upper Redesdale Show will once again be the last stop on the show calendar.

The traditional sheep event has a long history, and will take place on Saturday for the 128th time.

And this year’s event will see a welcome return for Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling.

Show secretary Karen Gaukroger explained: “There hasn’t been any wrestling at the show in recent years.

“But the Cumberland and Westmorland Association got in touch keen to reinstate it, and we are delighted, because certainly in the past, it was always part of the show.”

The show will get off to an early start with sheep dog trials at 8.30am, with sheep judging at 11am.

The day will also feature a dog show, with terriers, collies, Jack Russells and other breeds set to take part.

There will be home baking and arts and crafts in a bustling industrial tent, as well as quoits and children’s sports.

Karen said the cup presentation ceremony would take place a little earlier this year, at 3pm, to enable the Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling to get under way from 3.30pm.

Evening entertainment will be provided by live band We Steel Flyers.

The musicians will return having proved a popular act at last year’s show.

Karen added: “We have a very active committee, and the show would not happen if it wasn’t for the willingness of volunteers to do their bit.

“The farming community always comes together for the show, and we’ve all worked hard in preparation for the 128th year.

“All we can hope for is good weather on the day and that people come along and enjoy the day.

“The public generally start coming along from about 11am, but they are welcome anytime throughout the day.”