Your guide to the Southern Agricultural Show

Thousands of people are set to gather this weekend for an event designed to celebrate the Isle of Man's agricultural sector.

The annual Southern District Agricultural Show will take place on Saturday and Sunday at Orrisdale Farm in Ballasalla.

Show secretary Zoe Hampton said the event, which was first held in 1914, represents an "opportunity for people to get together and have new experiences".

The show will open at 09:30 BST on Saturday and go on until 18:00 BST on both days, with exhibitors expected to arrive each day by 09:00.

Saturday's grand parade at 16:00 will see the judging of the show's supreme champion.

As well as livestock shows, the annual event features local produce and trade stands, a tractor and vintage car parade, dog agility, show jumping, zumba and yoga sessions.

Live music, sheep shearing, lawnmower parades and dance displays will also feature.

Ms Hampton said the number of people involved in the show was "phenomenal".

She added: "We want to give people the opportunity to have a go at these things, have fun and have a laugh."

Visitors can also be tempted by local food stands, view arts and crafts on display, and witness stock judging.

"A lot of people don't realise there are all these locally made products on the Isle of Man," Ms Hampton said.

The two annual agricultural shows, along with the Manx food and drink festival which was scrapped last year, were "very important" to local producers, she added.

Ms Hampton said the Southern Show helps to educate children about where food comes from, as well as raising awareness about the importance of the agricultural industry.

Access to the car park is only available on the main A5 Douglas-to-Castletown Road.

Gate stewards will direct members of the public where to park.

Last year, the event attracted 15,000 people over the two days.

Tickets are available online or at the event entrance.

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