The final preparations for the north-east’s biggest agricultural event are under way.
The 151st Turriff Show starts on Sunday when thousands of visitors and traders from across the country are expected to transform the rural surroundings into a carnival of colours and sounds.
Organisers were at The Haughs yesterday preparing the show ground for the arrival of hundreds of stalls, livestock and even knights in shining armour who will fill the site for the two-day event.
Last night, the show’s vice president, Bruce Pirie, said he just hoped the weather would hold clear and bring as many people as possible out in support.
He said: “We’re looking forward to an exciting few days.
“Entries are high, and we have a lot on offer for everyone – from the best of Scottish livestock on show to shopping from trade stands and stalls and even a fun fair for children.
“One of our main attractions this year is going to be the Knights of the Damned who will be jousting in the main ring.”
Justin Pearson, who founded the display team in 2005 and who will perform as part of the show, said he was excited by the prospect of taking part.
“We last performed at the Turriff Show in 2008 – it was very well organised and had a great turnout,” he added.
“We’re based in Shropshire, so it is quite a long way for us to come, but it is well worth it. We’re really looking forward to it.”
After the Knights perform – on both days of the show – they will embark on a UK-wide tour, taking in Scotland before dates in London, Essex and Shrewsbury.
At least 30,000 people are due to visit over Sunday and Monday, with a packed programme of cooking demonstrations, auctions and sporting events taking place.
Motorists have been warned by police that parking on grass verges will not be tolerated. Last year, 42 parking tickets were issued.
A host of no-waiting restrictions marked by cones will be in place around the town, including on Station Road, Banff Road, Market Street, Crown Street and Balmellie Road.
Entry at the gate, which opens at 7am on Sunday, is £15 for adults and £10 for children and senior citizens.