Thousands flock to Balmoral Show

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The show features the cream of Northern Ireland livestock

One of the highlights of the Northern Ireland farming calendar is under way in Belfast.

Balmoral Show, one of Ireland's largest agricultural shows, is attracting about 70,000 people.

The three-day event features more than 400 trade stands as well as displays of horses, ponies, cattle, sheep, poultry, pigs and goats.

Motorists are being warned to expect delays, particularly around the Boucher Road and Stockman's Lane areas.

RUAS chief executive Colin McDonald said: "The show is renowned for presenting the cream of Northern Ireland livestock and for its extensive trade exhibits, and this year is no exception.

"We continue to broaden the programme to reflect the differing tastes of our diverse audience."

Between Wednesday and Friday, celebrity chef Jenny Bristow will be delivering master class sessions in the food pavilion.

Jonathan Anderson, 10, from Fintona, in County Tyrone, with an Eagle Owl from the NI school of Falconry

Bringing some thrills and spills to the main arena will be the comedy car stunt show, Dingle Fingle and the Clown Town Crimewatch.

Tots to teens will be entertained within the dedicated Kids Zone.

Young show visitors have an opportunity to hold, stroke and feed baby animals at the Childrens' Farm, and get acquainted with a range of freshwater fish at the Touch Tank.

Other firm favourites include the rare breeds section, dog agility competition, pony club games, riding for the disabled, the sheep dog and duck display, and sheep shearing contests.

Equestrian lovers will have an opportunity to watch the International Show Jumping competitions, Inter-hunt chase and the Northern Ireland Dressage Display.

Meanwhile, motorists are asked to leave extra time for their journeys and be aware of ongoing roadworks on the M1/Westlink.

While two lanes will remain open on the Westlink, an increase in the volume of traffic on all routes in and around Belfast is expected.

The temporary traffic arrangements between Stockman's Lane and Black's Road will remain the same for the Balmoral Show event.

Balmoral Show runs from 14 May - 16 May 2006 from 0830 BST to 2000 BST.