ORGANISERS are gearing up for the first Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow Show in two years.

The popular event which is held at The Knapps is expected to attract at least 5,000 visitors on May 14 as it bounces back following the pandemic.

The packed programme includes cattle and sheep competitions, show jumping, cross country and a dog show.

There will be new features such as the the food court and Knapps Experience education area.

Show president Aileen Russell said: "We are so excited to be back.

"People have missed the show and are especially keen to get out to see the animals and enjoy a day out in the country.

"We are absolutely delighted to have a full programme - the whole family can come along.

"We have local craftsmen, bee-keepers, cattle, sheep and Clydesdales and different animals such as alpacas.

"We are keeping the traditional parts of the show but have added new aspects to take it forward."

Other attractions in this year's event include vintage tractors, music from St Columba's Pipe Band and a performance by the May Hughes School of Dance.

The show has been held at The Knapps since 1953, and organisers are grateful to the MacLay family for permission to use their land and to all the advertisers and class sponsors, plus Event Scotland, Inverclyde Wind Farm Fund and Inverclyde Council.

Christine Kay is the convener of the industrial section which includes baking, arts and crafts.

She said: "We have over 70 classes and we usually get over 600 entries.

"So many people are from the local community are involved in the show either competing or volunteering and it takes a huge amount of work.

"We are very grateful for all the support both from the volunteers and the sponsorship from local businesses and we've had a lot of grants this year."

Village councillor David Wilson said: "It is a really important event in the village and brings thousands of visitors, mainly from Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow but also further afield.

"I have sponsored one of the sheep classes and I am very pleased to do that.

"The council has given a grant for a heritage feature in the show and education area and also to promote farming which is of interest to youngsters who come along."

Admission to the show will be priced £6 while entry for senior citizens is£3 and under-12s go free.

A free shuttle bus will run form Kilmacolm Cross to the showfield, starting at 10am.

More information is available at www.kilmacolmshow.org