EXCITEMENT is building as thousands of people prepare to descend on Bolesworth Castle for the annual equestrian extravaganza.

The Bolesworth Showjumping Classic and Country Fair near Tattenhall, which starts next Friday (June 9) and runs until Sunday, June 11, will play host to some of the best horse riders in the world, and features more than 40 classes including the Showjumping Grand Prix which offers £18,000.

And an Express Eventing qualifier will see 2011 badminton champion Mark Todd and former Badminton and Burghley winner, Oliver Townend strutting their stuff.

Entertainment will be provided by X Factor star Ruth Lorenzo at Saturday’s Big Night Out, celebrity chef Brian Mellor who will be giving cooking demonstrations, and there will be fashion hints and tips by leading shoe designer Cleo B.

Celebrity hairdresser Tommy van der Veken is hosting a Fashion Fete, and all the family will be entertained by the Jive Pony display team, wowballs, pony rides, shooting, archery, fun fair and a Punch and Judy show.

More than 18,000 visitors attended last year’s event, and the show’s organisers are hoping the success will be repeated this year, with more than 60 traders setting up stalls at the fair.

Show organiser Nina Barbour said: “At Bolesworth we have always aimed to generate income for the local economy and we’re delighted that so many traders are heading for Bolesworth this year.

“To have this level of support from traders is confirmation of our growing reputation in the UK’s summer events calendar.

“The variety of trade stands is fantastic and it means visitors will be able to enjoy some serious shopping action too.”

For more information visit www.bolesworthclassic.com.