IT'S going to be a good one. This year's Okehampton Show is guaranteed to delight with a wide range of events, displays and entertainments.

Show chairman Bill Voaden says there has been a 'tremendous response' to this popular, annual show. With the date now changed to Wednesday, August 22 — the height of the tourist season — he anticipates more visitors than ever will be turning up to enjoying this delightful slice of rural life.

This year's president is Jeffe Cunliffe — a dedicated supported of the Okehampton Show for many years.

Mr Cunliffe was voted in by post as the show committee decided not to attend meetings because of the foot and mouth crisis.

By booking more varied attractions the organisers have counteracted the lack of livestock.

This year there will be no sheep, cattle and pigs but there will be a large number of horses.

Owners, glad of the opportunity to take part in this top one-day event, are keen to take their steeds to the showground.

Enjoyed by locals and visitors alike it provides the perfect mix of agricultural excellence, trade stands and entertainment for all the family.

The Stoneypark site, with its sweeping eastward views towards the slopes of Dartmoor, makes a splendid location for a show renowned for its character and friendly atmosphere.

'I think it will be good for the area after all the doom and gloom. It will be a great day out for everybody,' said Bill.

It is hoped one of the main attractions will be the Royal Horse Artillery with their single gun team display and skills at arms demonstration.

More entertainment comes in the shape of the HawkMaster. He will be swooping in with a display that involves birds of prey and horses.

The power of the horse and majestic flight of the eagle, hawk and falcoln have been brought together to create a totally original spectacle.

The result is an authentic recreation of a medieval hunting scene.

Also in the main ring will be the parade of horses and cup winners.

As usual the show will have some of the very best examples of vintage vehicles on display — and, this year, there will also be a large trade stand featuring the latest MG cars.

Music will come from the Okehampton Excelsior Silver Band and there will be plenty of local celebrities at the Radio Devon Road Show which will be busy broadcasting from the showground.

And for children with energy to spare Bill said there will be one of the biggest inflatable play areas on site to leap about it.

What more could anyone want? Good weather. Well, Bill has already booked that as well.