Organisers of one of the biggest agricultural shows in the north-east have revealed plans to make it even better – and appeal to more people.
A food and drink marquee will be the latest addition to the line-up at the Turriff Show, showcasing the best produce from Aberdeenshire and beyond.
A cookery theatre will also be set up, potentially giving chefs the chance to show off their skills to a wide audience.
Show president Graeme Mackie is already in talks with caterers and businesses, with a range of demonstrators already taking a keen interest.
And Jane Craigie, a member of the show’s media and promotions team, said she was excited to see how many new visitors would turn-out for the expansion.
She said: “The area people are most interested in is the livestock with 70% coming specifically for that.
“Second came food and drink with just under 60%.
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“Unlike many other shows, Turriff has a strong young following and food and drink is something that entices them and plays a big part in their experience.
“When we asked what people wanted to see cooking demonstrations and a variety of local craft alcohols were what they said.”
Local farmer Sarah Mackie has a keen interest in food and drink and highlighted the opportunity for local buyers to take part and promote their brand and product.
She said: “To me, we need to use food and drink as the hook to bring people in – particularly those people who aren’t farming based.
“Our vision for the marquee this year is for it to be the best example of food and drink from the north-east.
“Wouldn’t it be brilliant to see?
“We’re not turning away our loyal producers from further afield, but we want to make the most of the rare thing we have on offer of putting produce and farming together with our area.”
Mr Mackie added: “What we’ve done for years is a great start but now we want to take it to the next level.”
To find out more about taking a space in the marquee, e-mail secretary Helen Paterson at helen@turriffshow.org
