Organisers of one of the longest-running agricultural shows in the country believe that up to 10,000 people could visit the north-east this weekend.
The New Deer show starts tonight with a live comedy event in the village before opening up the floodgates for thousands of visitors and stall holders who will pack Cragieford Park for two days.
Events include an annual tug of war spectacle, tractor towing, a cattle drive and even a pet show.
This year, organisers have also scheduled their own version of “It’s a Knockout”.
Last night, show president Graham Pirie said he expected at least 8,000 to pass through the gates between Saturday and Sunday.
“There’s also going to be cooking demonstrations by Craig Wilson, from Eat on the Green,” he added.
“There’s a bit of fun and games for everyone at the New Deer Show. This is our 169th one, and there’s been a lot of work going on this week alone for it.
“The park is looking really well, and people are beginning to get set-up with their stands. We’re just looking forward to welcoming a lot of people for what will be a great weekend, I’m sure.”
In previous years, up to 10,000 have made the journey to New Deer to experience the show.
And Mr Pirie believes it is not out of the realms of possibility of similar numbers to be present this year with the show yet to lose any momentum in its popularity.
“The secret of our success is the hard work and commitment of the show committee,” he said.
“There’s a lot of work that goes into the show by lots of people in the committee – and a lot of people outwith the committee – and it’s very much a local show. Everyone takes a lot of pride here in putting on the event.
“And I think the more you put into one, the more you get out. We’re really pleased to see so many people coming along, and I hope everyone has a good time this year – they make it all possible.”
