Twelve months after the cancellation of the last two days of the 2012 show following the wettest summer on record, more than £500,000 has been spent ‘weather-proofing’ the site in readiness for this year’s showcase on rural life.

Nigel Pulling, Chief Executive of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, said he was looking forward to a wonderful Great Yorkshire Show this year.

“What a difference a year makes. The contrast to last year could not be greater. The weather during the build up to the event has been ideal and we are looking forward to a fantastic three days,” he said.

As well as around 8,000 animals competing for the championship prizes, the prestigious showcase of agricultural and country life will play host to a wide range of well-known celebrities over the next three days, including author Jilly Cooper, TV chef Rosemary Shrager and gardening expert Christine Walkden.

Highlights include a mock battle staged by The Yorkshire regiment each day in the Main Ring, with displays by The White Helmets, The Royal Signals’ Motor Cycle Display Team, taking place daily.

The show is open daily from 7.30am to 7.30pm, and until 6.30pm on Thursday.