The summer agricultural show season is getting into full swing with two major events planned for next weekend.
In the north, the 174th Caithness County Show will take place on Friday and Saturday at Riverside Grounds, Wick.
While, the 168th New Deer Show takes place on the Saturday and Sunday at Craigieford Park, New Deer.
Both shows will see the region’s finest cattle, sheep and horses compete for coveted show rosettes.
The first day of the Caithness event is held for the judging of the Working Hunter classes, show jumping and other equestrian events.
The main day for the show is the Saturday where further horse judging will take place alongside cattle, sheep, poultry, pigs and rabbits.
Show secretary Kerry Mackenzie said entries for all classes are up 43 on last year, although cattle numbers are down by 10.
“The main attraction – the Broke FMX Motorcycle Display Team – will give the crowd two performances on the Saturday during the sports programme, which has something for everyone,” she said. Entry to the show is £8 for adults, £5 for concessions and £3 for children over the age of five. Those under the age of five get in for free and car parking is also free.
Meanwhile, this year’s New Deer Show will feature a special food and drink marquee to showcase local traders and their produce.
This is thanks to £10,000 funding from the Scottish Government in aid of the Year of Food and Drink.
Show president Allan Buchan said: “We would like to thank the Scottish Government for supporting the 2015 New Deer Show’s celebration of the Year of Food and Drink. This really makes a difference and allows us to showcase Scotland’s outstanding natural larder, much of which is available on our own doorstep.”
Entry to the show is £10 for adults, £5 for OAPs and those aged between 12 and 16, and free for children under the age of 12.