ORGANISERS of the New Forest and Hampshire County Show, which begins today, have vowed to beat the horrific conditions that are causing chaos across the south.

The nearby Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show was abandoned on Sunday after torrential rain turned the site into a mud bath.

However, New Forest Show bosses have taken special precautions to protect the 38-acre showground at New Park, Brockenhurst, which is expected to see about 100,000 visitors over the three days.

Lorry drivers delivering all the tents, stands and marquees were told to keep off the grass to prevent their vehicles churning up the turf.

Organisers have also arranged for large amounts of stone chippings to be deployed at a moment's notice if the ground gets too wet.

With the rain due to die out last night and sunny spells forecast for today, officials were in optimistic mood yesterday as they prepared to stage one of the south's biggest summer events.

A show spokesman said: "We're absolutely fine. I'm looking at the West Ring at the moment and it's in immaculate condition.

"We've spent the past six weeks banning all vehicles from the grass, which meant every marquee has had to be lugged in by hand.

"The parking area is also in perfect condition. Luckily we're on gravel, which dries out very quickly."

Bad weather caused major problems at the 2003 show, when torrential rain turned the grass walkways used by thousands of spectators into a quagmire.

The following year show bosses spent tens of thousands of pounds on creating two permanent stone tracks to provide visitors with a firm and dry surface.

The new tracks passed their first major test in 2005, when New Park was hit by another downpour.

Highlights of this year's event will include a return appearance by the King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, who will stage their musical ride on all three days.

The event will also feature the traditional mix of country crafts, livestock competitions and show jumping, plus an in-depth look at rural issues.

Daily coaching sessions staged by experts from the David Beckham Football Academy will enable potential soccer stars of the future to improve their skills.