Organisers of one of Shropshire’s biggest one-day shows are preparing to welcome back many of the area’s top livestock producers.

Uncertainty over disease and strict animal movement legislation has seen fewer cattle and sheep at Oswestry Show in recent years.

But the 2009 show, on August 1, has seen an upturn in entries for the traditional livestock events and a new sheep-shearing competition.

And so many horse owners now take part in the show at Park Hall showground, that judging for some competitions begins early this year.

The show attracts about 15,000 visitors each year, with people enjoying a full day of attractions.

Show secretary Janet Ward said: “After a few turbulent years in agriculture, movement restrictions enforced by foot and mouth and bluetongue disease have caused many problems to exhibitors showing stock in the cattle and sheep classes.

“However, this year, numbers are on the rise again, especially in the sheep classes, with record entries of more than 100 exhibits in the Texel Sheep section.”

Some of the top sheep-shearers in the region will be battling it out to win the inaugural Oswestry Show shearing competition with fleeces flying for first prize.

The Young Farmers’ Club is hosting a dance on the evening of the show for members and non-members.