Camels to feature at show

Camels will be the top attraction

As temperatures soar, organisers of the historic Bakewell Show have announced camels as the star attraction at this year's event.

Crowds at the 173rd Annual Bakewell Show, famed for its traditional sheep and cattle parades, will watch a train of camels stride across the showground and compete in a series of sprint events.

The racing camels will claim top billing at the first day of the show in Derbyshire on Wednesday, with an estimated 50,000 people expected to attend the event over two days.

Show director Brian Bakel said: "We have been trying to get the camels in for a few years, but have been hampered by restriction following the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

BAKEWELL SHOW It's very appropriate that we've finally managed to secure this attraction given the heatwave expected on Wednesday Brian Bakel, director

"They will give the crowd something new and exciting and while the cattle are kept under cover in the heat, the camels will be fine to parade around our main ring on the showground.

"It's very appropriate that we've finally managed to secure this attraction given the heatwave expected on Wednesday."

Though the four camels were bred in the UK and continental Europe, owners said they will relish parading for spectators in the afternoon sunshine.

A spokeswoman for Warwickshire-based company Joseph's Amazing Camels said: "The camels will be absolutely fine and are quite used to the hot weather.

"They may look out for a bit of shade and the races might be a little slower than usual, but they won't be too bothered by the heat."

Mr Bakel said that the show, which last year suffered from torrential downpours, will also have displays of Iberian horses and Spanish Water Dogs.

However the heat could affect one of the show's traditional events - cheese sculpting.