Princess Royal to visit 140th Lincolnshire Show

The Princess Royal is to visit the Lincolnshire Show next month to celebrate its 140th edition.

About 60,000 people are expected to turn out at the two-day event near Lincoln, which is best-known for its livestock and equine competitions.

Princess Anne, who previously served as president of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, is to attend the show on 18 June, organisers have said.

Charlotte Powell, chief executive of the society, which runs the event, said: "The Lincolnshire Show is always a significant event for the county, but it feels extra special this time as we celebrate our 140th show."

Television presenter Matt Baker, who fronts the BBC's Countryfile, is due to make a guest appearance on the second day of the event at the Lincolnshire Showground.

For the first time, the show will host an amateur jousting performance by The Knights of Middle England, which will include stunt riders, actors and combatants.

Meanwhile, a new Rural Voices Stage will host panel discussions and debates.

The Lincolnshire Show beach will return after it was introduced to the event last year, when about 60 tonnes of sand was transported 40 miles (64km) from the coast.

Ms Powell said it would be an "absolute pleasure and honour" to welcome the princess to the show.

She added: "From the very first show in 1869, the event has been a source of pride and celebration for everyone involved with the county of Lincolnshire, and we can't wait for everyone to see all the hard work that has gone into this year's event."

Alongside the activities, the Lincolnshire Show champions local produce, celebrates the county's best businesses and stages a host of family attractions.

More than 500 exhibitors and about 2,500 animals attend the event.

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