PAMPERED and exotic animals from the smallest mice to big beasts will be the stars of this year's Bingley Show, hosted by its new president, show jumping legend Harvey Smith.

Mr Smith first rode at Bingley Show in 1947 and has supported the equestrian events ever since, competing many times, as have his sons and grandson.

And he will be bringing an old friend to Myrtle Park on Saturday - one of Yorkshire's greatest racehorses, Mister McGoldrick, who was trained to many famous victories by Mr Smith's wife, Sue.

Away from the equine events, Bingley Show caters for all the family with a special children’s corner, fairground attractions, slides, climbing wall and donkey rides.

And there is the magic of the smaller animal shows, with hundreds of mice, guinea pigs and rabbits, plus England's last surviving show for pedigree and pet cats to be held under canvas.

These shows, plus poultry tents full of hens, take place just over the river via Beckfoot Bridge.

Craft, handicraft, and horticulture marquees will be heaving full of flowers, vegetables, and many treasured exhibits.

Heading down to Bottom Meadow, visitors can meet the larger animals including cows, sheep, goats, and alpacas.

And this also the venue for the show jumping events, with the thrill of watching riders tackle the increasingly higher jumps.

Skilful use of a different kind of horsepower will be exhibited during a daring stunt bike demonstration.

During the afternoon, the main ring has a varied programme with classic car parade, a display by Airedale Beagles and the chance to meet Mister McGoldrick.

It is also the setting for a cattle parade, and the start and finish of the 10k race organised by Bingley Harriers. More food stalls than one could ever visit, plus refreshment tents, mean the whole day will be fully catered for with brass band music as traditional accompaniment.

New chairman of the show, Martin Preston said: "Bingley Show has been on the town’s calendar for well over a hundred years. Whilst the attractions and the trade stands change, the one thing that stays the same is the warm welcome we offer all our visitors from far and wide.

"So here’s hoping for a fantastic day’s weather and a great family day out in the heart of our town."

Bingley ward councillor David Heseltine, said it was always a great celebration of the best of local life.

"And there's always the chance to see exciting wild animals up close - by which I mean cows and sheep!" he joked.

"Seriously though, it's always a wonderful day and a time when Bingley gets back in touch with its agricultural roots and heritage," Councillor Heseltine said.