Businesses are being urged to pledge their support to this year's Bingley Show to help make it one of the best.

Organisers today said preparations for the 124th annual extravaganza - on Sunday, August 15, in Myrtle Park - were going "very well" but stressed the need for businesses to back the event and help boost the town's image.

Airedale Agricultural Society's vice-chairman and publicity officer, Teddy Wright, said: "Our chairman Brian Chippindale is delighted with the way the show is coming together and at this stage we have got more bookings for spaces compared to this time last year.

"But we are slightly disappointed that we have not had more local companies supporting us and we'd be more than happy if they contacted us and got involved. We want the local support because this is the Bingley Show and it is all about the town."

Mr Wright said a number of vehicle traders would be appearing at the show and showcasing their cars, including Polar Ford and Appleyard Jaguar in Bradford, and Colin Appleyard in Keighley.

Other highlights pencilled in for the event, which is expected to attract crowds of more than 20,000, include a Bradford Bulls roadshow, dog show, horticultural displays and trade stands.

Meanwhile real ale fans are being given the chance to name a special commemorative Bingley beer which is being brewed for the event. The winner will be taken on a tour of the Eastwood and Sanders brewery in Elland, which is producing the ale, to see it being brewed.

The competition is running in conjunction with the Myrtle Grove pub in Main Street, which will be holding a mini beer festival at the show. Jason Hampson, assistant manager of the pub, said "People can enter in the pub and there is a £1 entry fee but all proceeds will be donated to the chain's chosen charity CLIC, which stands for Cancer and Leukaemia in Childhood."

The charity provides support, advice and help to children, teenagers and their families who are dealing with leukaemia and other forms of cancer. The closing date for entries to name the special brew is July 28. The second prize is a family ticket for Bingley Show.