From livestock to lace, the celebration of the island’s agricultural and cultural life takes place at the Southern District Agricultural Show at Great Meadow, near Castletown on July 29 and 30.

Entries in most categories must be submitted by Sunday, June 18.

The show, first held in 1914, is well respected and judges from Scotland, Wales and England will judge the livestock, light horse, heavy horse and fur and feather exhibits, while judges from the island will adjudicate all other sections.

The core focus is the promotion and development of agriculture, but the show also boasts one of the biggest displays of local horses.

The vintage machinery section is hotly contested and there will be extra classes this year.

The dog obedience and agility sections are tough competitions and the standard is high.

For information on obedience contact Carrie Cooil on 497687; for the agility classes contact Fiona Kelly on 496900.

For Sunday’s classes it’s enter on the day and the Celtic Dog Club runs an open show for breed and fun classes.

Contact Rachel Marshall on 410034 or email [email protected].

There are plenty of classes to choose from in the fur and feather section. Young exhibitors in particular are invited to take part in these sections. Thanks to sponsorship from The Farmer’s Den at Pooil Vaaish, there’s plenty of prize money to win!

Bring pet lambs on Sunday for the brilliantly entertaining fancy dress and lamb agility with many prizes including the ’Woolly Jumper Award’ for the highest jump!

The Friends of the MSPCA hold a pet show for small animals on Sunday.

Contact Jacqueline Street at Milan Vets in Castletown for classes and judging times.

There are classes for those interested in displaying some gardening, baking or arts and craft skills.

Entries in these sections are accepted on Friday, June 28 from 4pm to 8pm or on the first day of the show from 8am until 9.30am. Confectionery and baking can only be entered on the morning of the show.

Feedback on the show and ideas for its future will be gauged in a survey available online or at the ticket gate on the show days.

Completed forms will be entered into a free draw to win a car plus two on a return trip courtesy of the Steam Packe.

Any business interested in sponsorship should contact the secretary.

For more information see www.southernshow.org or contact the secretary, Sarah Comish phone 07624 494497, email [email protected].