Great Yorkshire Show opens for first time in 2 years

The gates are open and the visitors have arrived!

The show includes everything from family shows to competitions and discussions about climate change.
Author: Seb CheerPublished 13th Jul 2021
Last updated 13th Jul 2021

One of North Yorkshire's largest events has returned for the first time in two years.

The Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate was cancelled last year, instead taking place online because of coronavirus.

This year, organisers have worked with health authorities to put a series of measures in place.

This includes increasing the length of the event to allow more people to attend, despite a reduced capacity.

"Very very excited, I was jumping up and down!"

104,000 visitors will be at the Great Yorkshire Show this year. They include 11-year-old Ralph Rider, who is also pony riding in the main ring on Friday.

He told us: "We've come every year and it's so exciting to be back. I'm so excited to be back.

"Last year was very different. I always loved coming, and it was just a bit strange really.

"When I found out it would be happening this year, I was very excited, I was so happy with myself, I was jumping up and down, it was wonderful!"

Ralph Rider, 11, is taking part in the Prince Philip games on Friday.

Dad, Adam, from Thirsk, is a regular. He told us: "It's a relief really, after however many months. It's just nice to be back and see people out and get ready to see all the animals.

"Last year was quite sad really, at least the weather was nice last year and we got to be out and about, but it was very sad."

Eliza and Polly, from Manchester, are "excited for seeing the horses and seeing the horses do racing," and for the cattle.

It's the first time they've come, although their Dad is a regular, and says it's special to bring them.

Over the next four days, many more people will come through the show. Click here to read more about how it's being organised.

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