THE countdown to the New Forest Show has begun.

Huge marquees have started springing up on the showground at New Park, Brockenhurst, as officials start the big build-up to this year's event, which opens on July 27.

Over the next two weeks staff will work flat out to transform the site from 38 acres of bare grass into a premier venue.

Highlights of the show will include the world pole-climbing championship, the Shetland Pony Grand National and appearances by the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines.

The three-day spectacular will also feature a heavy horse musical drive, a parade of hunting hounds and Bob Hogg's sheepdog display.

A show spokesman said three of the south's top craftsmen, Alan Brown, Celia Lewis and Norman Bishop, would be taking part in the event.

She said: "Alan has been hurdle-making all his life. His family has been involved in the craft for over 150 years and his son is carrying on the tradition.

"Celia has been sculpting wood for more than 15 years and is now a nationally known figure who supplies well-known garden centres.

"Norman is another well-known figure at the show with his array of tables and trays. He started his career after seeing a course advertised in New York. Having successfully completed it he returned to the UK and later turned his hobby into a full-time job."

The Wreford landscaping company, based at Braishfield, has agreed to build a central feature in the members' area to accommodate a musical quartet.

"Wreford were delighted to accept the challenge and will create a mature garden incorporating a raised decking area and canopy," added the spokesman.

The New Forest Show, which attracts about 100,000 people over the three days, was originally a one-day event that was first held in 1921.

It is now one of the top ten agricultural and equestrian shows in the UK.