LIVESTOCK breeders are joining forces to demonstrate their support for the Three Counties Show, pushing this year's sheep and cattle entries through the roof.

Last year's show was widely regarded as the best for a long time, with livestock entries right up across the board.

Organisers, the Three Counties Agricultural Society has now confirmed that next month's event, celebrating its 50th anniversary, promises to be the best yet.

Cattle entries are up by 12 per cent on 2006 and sheep entries have risen by an impressive 23 per cent.

The society introduced new sections to last year's event to attract more entries, including a dairy calf championship.

New additions for this year include Bluefaced Leicester Sheep and Kune Kune pigs.

The much loved Jersey cow, which returned to the last show after a six year absence, will be back again, with its own dedicated Jersey section.

Show spokesman Sharon Gilbert said she was delighted with the entry figures and would like to thank breeders for their support.

"It's wonderful to see the heart of this show getting stronger again, particularly as its the 50th Three Counties Show at the showground, and very encouraging for the future."

Organisers are building on the success of the specially designated rare breeds day, launching the first National Rare and Minority Breeds Show on the final day of the event.

Substantial increases have been made to prize funds in the sheep shearing competition, and a fleece bring and buy will take place alongside spinning, weaving and wool knitting workshops.

The show runs at Malvern's Three Counties Showground from Friday to Sunday, June 15-17.

Discounts are available for tickets booked before June 7, via the website www.threecounties.co.uk or by calling 01684 584924.