THE annual Bromyard Gala takes place next weekend, Saturday and Sunday, July 2-3.

The gala, founded in 1967, has grown over the years from small beginnings into the county’s largest outdoor show.

Every year this quiet corner of rural Herefordshire is transformed and the event attracts thousands of visitors with its blend of traditional country show attractions and its steam rally and vintage vehicle displays.

Main arena events provide non-stop entertainment and a bandstand has music throughout the gala for those who just want to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Liz Huffer, chairman of the Bromyard Gala Soceity, said: “It really is a family day out, there’s something for all the family. We have got quite a large band of volunteers and everybody is working hard. It’s their hobby and their passion, so they want people to come and enjoy things that they enjoy doing.”

Features for the 2011 gala include country pursuits with rare breeds, poultry and a mix of country life and country sports. The steam rally, a hugely popular part of the gala, will have gleaming traction engines and steam rollers and vintage and classic cars and trucks. There will be arena parades and working demonstrations of steam powered threshing and sawing.

With all the features of an old-fashioned country show the Bromyard Gala will also have prize-winning Hereford Cattle, the annual egg throwing contest and large marquees for competitive handicrafts, gardening, a food fair, craft sales and rabbits and cavies.

Daily admission costs £10 for adults and £9 for OAPs with children under 16 free when with an adult or £2 unaccompanied. If tickets are purchased in advance they cost £8.50 for adults and £7.50 for OAPs. For advance tickets call 01885 488496.